Recently, Novak Djokovic faced an unexpected challenge during the final of the 2025 Miami Masters 1000, where he presented an infection in his right eye that affected his performance on the court.
The Serb went into the match with his eye almost closed, which caused concern among his fans and sports analysts. During the match, he could be seen applying eye drops on several occasions, which evidenced the discomfort he was experiencing.
The possible infection and the impact it may have had
The eye infection Djokovic is suffering from is not only a physical inconvenience, butit may also have repercussions on his ability to compete at the highest level. In post-match comments in which he was first noticed, Djokovic described the day as “weird”, mentioning the rain delay and other factors that further complicated the situation. “I really prefer not to talk,” he said when asked directly about his eye, indicating that he preferred to keep the focus away from his health condition.
Having an eye infection can significantly affect an athlete’s vision and concentration. In a demanding sport such as tennis, where every millisecond counts, any visual distraction can be detrimental. The discomfort caused by the infection could have influenced his performance during the last matches.
How to treat an eye infection
Eye infections can be caused by various factors, including bacteria, viruses or allergies. It is essential to address any symptoms of an eye infection immediately to avoid major complications. Here are some guidelines on how to treat an eye infection:
- Medical consultation: The first and most important thing is to see a health professional. An ophthalmologist can perform a thorough examination to determine the exact cause of the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
- Use of eye drops: Depending on the type of infection, antibiotic or antiviral eye drops may be prescribed. These medications help fight the bacteria or viruses responsible for the infection and are essential to speed up recovery.
- Cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to the affected eye can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. It is important to ensure that the compresses are clean to avoid introducing more bacteria.
- Eye hygiene: Maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial during an infection. Washing hands frequently and avoiding touching the eyes can prevent the spread of germs. In addition, it is advisable not to share towels or cosmetic products such as makeup or contact lenses.
- Avoid contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it is advisable to leave them out until the infection has completely healed. The lenses can further irritate the eye and hinder the healing process.
- Visual rest: limiting screen time (computers, mobile phones) can help reduce eye strain and allow the eyes to rest while they heal.
- Medical follow-up: After initial treatment, it is important to follow up with the doctor to ensure that the infection is clearing up and there are no additional complications.
How to avoid getting an eye infection
Preventing eye infections is essential to maintaining visual health and avoiding complications. One of the most effective measures is to practice good eye hygiene. This includes washing your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. It is advisable to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can transfer germs and cause irritation. In addition, always make sure to use clean makeup and cosmetic products; never share these items with others.
If you wear contact lenses, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and those of your healthcare professional on their use and care. Change your lenses as recommended and never sleep with them unless they are specifically designed for this purpose. It is also important to properly clean lens cases and replace them regularly.
In dusty or contaminated environments, consider wearing protective goggles to prevent foreign particles from coming into contact with your eyes. Likewise, if you experience symptoms such as redness, itching or discharge, consult a physician immediately for appropriate treatment before the situation worsens. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle also helps to strengthen the immune system, which helps to prevent infections in general.
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