This was not an isolated incident in Djokovic’s career where a medical timeout has swung the pendulum in the game. “Over the years, there has been a growing suspicion around Novak, due to his expressions or histrionics, casting doubt on the authenticity of his injuries,” Nadal wrote in his column in Spanish for El Pais.

“When a player faces physical problems in such a match, they typically delay the decision to withdraw until the last moment. They call the physio, struggle through a few games with limitations, and only when realizing the inevitable, do they opt for retirement,” he further wrote.

“On several occasions, we have seen Novak with similar performances, using facial expressions and body language that contradict what we see on the court, raising doubts about the authenticity of his issues,” he added.

Earlier during the match against Alcaraz analyst John McEnroe, who was doing commentary on Channel Nine too questioned the authenticity of Djokovic’s injuries. “This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this routine. Don’t be fooled,” John McEnroe said.

However, Djokovic took to Instagram and posted the photos of his injury. “Towards the end of that first set I just started feeling more and more pain,” he said on Friday. “Unfortunate ending, but I tried.”

“I know how my body works, what I feel, and I know how much I’ve given to this tournament in the past 20-plus years,” he said after the win against Alcaraz.“I will stop here so that I don’t continue (speaking) in the wrong direction.”