Juan Martin Del Potro has an important message for Novak Djokovic

Del Potro is not stranger to injuries, layoffs and comebacks. His career has been hampered by so many injuries that he could write a book about the ‘art of recovery’. So, when he advises you about how to live life during rehabilitation, you leave everything aside and listen.

Del Potro has advised the ailing Djokovic, who had to retire from his Wimbledon quarter final against Tomas Berdych due to elbow pain, to stay home with his kids and enjoy these few months with his family.

Djokovic is set to miss the remainder of the season and will be training to get back on court in 2018.

“It’s not easy to stop for a long time and come back,” Del Potro said. “Many players can play good after a long injury, but they won’t play as good (soon after) as they will in the future.

“My advice is to have good times at home with the kids and you will be strong enough when you are ready to come back.” Del Potro said

Del Potro has battled with a wrist injury almost all through his career. His stop-start career hasn’t really taken off due to that and thus he understands that not everyone can recover and comeback from a layoff like Roger Federer.

“My wrist bothers me sometimes with the conditions and the weather. I have to be aware of that,” Del Potro said.

“I’m looking forward to playing a few more years. When you get older you must be smart for training. Now I need to work hard. I lose many positions because of my injuries.” he added.

Del Potro is currently featuring in the Citi Open, where he will be vying for his fourth title.

“We have so many players in the top 20. For me it’s a great challenge to do well in this tournament. Young guys are coming on and they hit so strong.” he said.

“I don’t think about the ranking. I don’t care if I’m top 30, top 50. I just want to play tennis.” he concluded.