More doubts over Djokovic’s Australian Open hopes
Novak Djokovic’s ATP Cup teammates have cast further doubt on whether he will feature at the Australian Open, following reports in Serbia that the world No.1 is set to be denied a medical exemption to enter the country.
Djokovic withdrew from the primary lead-up tournament for the first grand slam of the year on Wednesday, just a few hours after notifying his teammates.
His absence has handed Serbia’s No.1 slot at the tournament to Dusan Lajovic, who was forced to answer questions about his high-profile compatriot in Sydney on Thursday.
“We knew [Djokovic was out of the ATP Cup], I think, a day-and-a-half ago or something like that,” Lajovic said. “I think we’re all waiting for that last-minute decision.”
Pressed on whether Djokovic would fly to Australia at all, Lajovic said the 20-time grand slam champion was left with little choice but to “hope” he will be permitted to fly to Australia.
“He was, I think, hoping the same as we did, that somehow he will be here, but unfortunately he’s not and we’ve got to deal with it,” Lajovic said.
Novak Djokovic will not represent Serbia in Sydney.Credit:AP
Djokovic did not provide any official reason for his withdrawal from the ATP Cup. His teammates were also left in the dark.
“I don’t know the official reason but maybe the ATP knows,” Lajovic said. “[Djokovic] just said that he’s not coming to the ATP Cup and he’s trying to get to the Australian Open.
“He said, ‘I’m not coming guys to the ATP Cup; we’ll see about the Australian Open’. I mean, he didn’t specify if he’s coming or not but that he’s waiting for a decision.”
Fellow top five star Stefanos Tsitsipas, who fell to Djokovic in the French Open final, defended the Serbian’s right to choose whether he is vaccinated.
“It’s his decision. If he thinks he’s not ready to play here for whatever reason, it’s his choice. Most players respect his choice, and he has the freedom to choose,” Tsitsipas said.
Stefanos Tsitsipas has backed Novak Djokovic’s right to choose on the COVID vaccine.Credit:Getty
The Greek star initially expressed vaccine hesitancy before receiving the COVID-19 jab, and showed nothing but respect for the rules for entry put in place by the Australian government.
“The rules are rules, and the rules are established for a certain purpose and a reason,” he said.
“There are certain parameters that have to be followed to make certain things happen. If some players decide not to come, that’s their choice.
“I wouldn’t say there is right or wrong here. I was really looking forward to coming to Australia and followed whatever was necessary in order for me to come.
“I just love being here, whether it’s in Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne, the overall vibe is great.”
While Roger Federer will be absent from the entire Australian summer and a cloud remains over Djokovic, Rafael Nadal will travel to Melbourne and chase a 21st grand slam title.
The Spaniard tested positive for COVID-19 after competing in an exhibition event in the UAE this month, but will complete his preparation for the first grand slam of the year in Melbourne.
Nadal’s presence will make life a little harder for the next crop of stars, many of whom are chasing their first major.
“That is how it’s going to be [without the top three], generally, in a few years’ time. And potentially, maybe in two years’ time. [We’re just] getting used to it earlier, it’s pretty much the new reality,” Tsitsipas said.
“Let’s see how tennis works out without the top three. I really want to see which players are going to prevail at this point.”
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