Novak Djokovic urged to retire after been diagnosed with a severe....

Novak Djokovic has been urged to retire by Express Sport readers after pulling out of the French Open ahead of his quarter-final showdown with Casper Ruud. The 37-year-old aggravated a knee issue during his five-set thriller with Francisco Cerundolo in the last 16 after being forced to play until 3.07am.

He would have fancied his chances of extending that run at this year’s Roland Garros after battling his way through to the last eight. But instead of taking to the court against Ruud, he underwent an operation to mend a medial meniscus ligament tear.

Djokovic has managed his body well since landing a place on the ATP Tour. But his two decades at the top level may now be catching up with the Serbian. And our readers have had their say.

We asked Express Sport readers whether they thought Djokovic should call time on his playing career at the end of the year. And 56 per cent of the people who responded said he should.

If Djokovic heeds their advice, it would mean he only has two more Grand Slams left in him, with Wimbledon set to get underway at the start of July, before the US Open starts at the end of August. The blockbuster star will also be eyeing up a place at the Paris Olympics, which is scheduled to begin at the end of July

Djokovic took to Instagram following his knee surgery to post an image of himself on crutches standing alongside friends, family and team members.

And the ace wrote: “In the past day, I had to make some tough decisions after sustaining a meniscus tear during my last match. I’m still processing it all but I am happy to update you that the surgery went well.

“I am so appreciative of the team of doctors who have been by my side as well as the overwhelming support I have received from my fans.