NOVAK DJOKOVIC (SRB) TENNIS , AUSTRALIAN OPEN SERIES, MELBOURNE PARK, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA, GRAND SLAM, HARD COURT, OUTDOOR, ITF, ATP, WTA, 2021, © TENNIS PHOTO NETWORK
Novak Djokovic unsure of participation in 2022 Australian Open
World No.1 Novak Djokovic has revealed that he has still not made up his mind regarding his participation at January’s 2022 Australian Open after the organisers confirmed that COVID-19 jab is must for all the players who are competing at the season’s opening Grand Slam event.
The Serb was talking about the same after his semi-final loss at the ATP Finals against Alexander Zverev. He said: “We’ll see. We’ll have to wait and see.”
Meanwhile, Zverev, who is a good friend of the 20-time Grand Slam champions, is hoping that the star takes part in next year’s first Grand Slam.
“This is a very tough one because it’s very political. But we are visiting another country. This is not about tennis. This is about the virus that is going on.
“We need to follow the rules and follow the guidelines. I hope he’s able to play. I’m number three in the world so, if he doesn’t play, it’s easier to win the tournament. This is obvious. Also, he’s number one in the world so he should be there.”
Djokovic, who is tied on the same number of Grand Slams with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at 20 was seen as the favourite to lift the title once again. He has already won the Aus Open nine times and it was seen as a perfect stage for him to take the lead.
However, with his participation in doubt and Nadal earlier confirming that he is fit and raring to go – the Spaniard himself will be thinking of going one clear of Djokovic and Federer in the race of Grand Slam titles.
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Federer has already announced that he won’t be taking part at Melbourne Park as he is no way near full fitness.
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