Tennis: Serbian Lajovic is unsure of Djokovic’s Australian Open plans

(REUTERS, AFP) – Novak Djokovic did not tell his Serbian teammates why he withdrew from the ATP Cup team event, said compatriot Dusan Lajovic on Thursday (December 30), adding that he is not sure if the world number one will travel. Melbourne Australian Open.

Speculation has been brisk about Djokovic’s participation in the first major in 2022, and the 34-year-old, who opposes Covid-19 vaccinations, has repeatedly refused to say whether he has been vaccinated.

The organizers of the Australian Open, which begins on January 17, have stipulated that all participants must be vaccinated or have a medical exemption granted by an independent panel of experts.

The Serbian last-minute withdrawal from the Sydney ATP Cup, which starts on Saturday, has fueled speculation that he may also miss the hard field at Major’s Melbourne Park, where he has won a record nine championships, including the last three.

“I don’t know the official reason. Maybe ATP knows,” Lajovic, 33rd, who leads Serbia’s campaign in the ATP Cup in Djokovic’s absence, told reporters.

“I mean the decision,” he said, “I’m not coming, guys, to the ATP Cup.” We’re watching the Australian Open.

“He didn’t specify if he’s coming or not, but he’s waiting for a decision.”

It is not clear what this decision is, but if he applies for a medical exemption, it would be evaluated by an independent panel of experts and would remain confidential.

Greek World Cup 4. Stefanos Tsitsipas said Djokovic’s absence was a big blow to the $ 10 million (S $ 13.5 million) ATP Cup.

“If he thinks he’s not ready to play here for some reason, that’s his choice,” said the 23-year-old, who lost to Djokovic in this year’s French Open final.

“I believe most players respect his choice. He has the freedom to choose. The rules are the rules, and the rules are made for a specific purpose and reason.

“So certain parameters have to be followed for certain things to happen. So if some players choose not to follow them, it’s their choice. I wouldn’t say it’s right or wrong here.”