Melbourne, Dec 8th : .Serbia’s world No.1 Novak Djokovic has confirmed his participation in January’s ATP Cup tournament at Sydney.This is a hint that he could also compete in the season-opening major the Australian Open which begins on January 17. Djokovic, who was the year-end world number one — is now the highest placed player in the world.Djokovic, who was the year-end world No.1 — moving ahead of his idol Pete Sampras (sixteen years) — has perhaps given the most clear hint that he will be in Melbourne to defend his Australian Open title.
The third edition of ATP Cup will see 16 countries compete beginning January 1, 2022.Four groups will be announced at the official tournament draw on Tuesday according to sen.com.au.
“18 of the top twenty tennis players will be featured in the tournament, which will run from January 1-9 as the main ATP precursor for the Australian Open.”
Djokovic has left the Australian Open organizers and his fans wondering about his Covid-19 vaccination status.This adds to uncertainty over his participation in the major.
Srdjan Djokovic, Novak’s father, recently stated that Novak “probably will’t” play at the Australian Open because the tournament organizers’ decision not to allow unvaccinated players (or players who don’t share their Covid-19 vaccination status) amounts to “blackmail”.
Craig Tiley, the Australian Open director, stated that only fully vaccinated participants will be allowed to participate in the tournament.Djokovic is the nine-time Australian Open champion and defending champion.
He has not disclosed his vaccination status or whether he plans to get vaccinated prior to the tournament.
Djokovic celebrated his 350th week at the top of ATP Rankings on Tuesday.
This extended his record for most weeks in the top spot.However, the Serbian tennis star Steffi Graf’s record 377-weeks at the top WTA ranking was also on the agenda.
Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, and Dominic Thiem are some of the other top players who confirmed their participation in ATP Cup for their respective country.
After the group stage, four countries will be advancing to the semifinals.
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