Djokovic claims critics accusing him of ‘fake’ injury are driving Melbourne run

Novak Djokovic has hit back at critics accusing him of “faking” his hamstring injury by saying it adds to his motivation to win the Australian Open title. The condition

of the Serbian’s left leg has been a major talking point at Melbourne Park after he arrived at the tournament nursing the injury and then took medical timeouts in his second and

third-round matches. But he still won both and then dispatched Alex De Minaur with a ruthless display in the fourth round on Monday, losing only five games. Speaking

to Serbian media in quotes reported by tennismajors.com, Djokovic hit back at those questioning whether he is really injured, saying: “I leave the doubting to those people – let

them doubt. “Only my injuries are questioned. When some other players are injured, then they are the victims, but when it is me, I am faking it. It is very interesting. I

don’t feel that I need to prove anything to anyone. “I have got the MRI, ultrasound and everything else, both from two years ago and now. Whether I will publish that in my

documentary or on social media depends on how I feel. Maybe I will do I it, maybe I won’t. “I am not really interested at this point what people are thinking and saying. It

is fun, it is interesting to see how the narrative surrounding me continues, (a) narrative that is different compared to other players that have been going through similar

situations. Only my injuries are questioned. When some other players are injured, then they are the victims, but when it is me, I am faking it. “But I am used to it

and it just gives me extra strength and motivation. So I thank them for that.”