Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the ATP Cup heightened his doubts about participating in the Australian Open

Novak Djokovic withdrew from the ATP Cup on Wednesday, further speculation that the world number one will also miss the upcoming Australian Open. ATP refuses to explain the reason for Djokovic’s withdrawal, And the 20-time Grand Slam winner has not dealt with any known injuries.

The ATP Cup will start in Sydney on January 1, just 16 days before the Australian Open starts in Melbourne. Dusan Lajovic will replace Djokovic in Serbia’s ATP Cup list, a team event involving 16 countries.

Djokovic’s COVID-19 vaccination status is likely to influence his decision. The ATP Cup does not require vaccination, but the Australian Open requires every player to be stabbed-or medically exempted-to participate in the competition. Djokovic repeatedly refused to disclose whether he was vaccinated.

In an interview with Melbourne media last week, Australian Open director Craig Terry insisted that his game does not allow unvaccinated players to participate-regardless of their star status.

“If Novak appears in the Australian Open, he will either be vaccinated or get a medical exemption,” Terry said. protector.

Defending Australian Open champion Djokovic is still on the roster for the competition despite doubts about his eligibility. Including last year, he has won nine Grand Slam championships.

In late November, Srjan Djokovic, Novak’s father told Serbian TV that his son “may” miss the chance to defend the Australian Open title About the vaccination task of the game.

“Under these extortions and conditions, he may not [play]. I would not do that. He is my son, so you decide for yourself,” Srdjan Djokovic said, according to BBC Sport. “…As far as vaccines and non-vaccinations are concerned, whether to vaccinate is a personal right of each of us or not. …No one has the right to enter our intimate relationship. “

Djokovic’s 20 Grand Slam singles titles are tied with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, the most in history. All three players will be absent from the Australian Open, and the last two players will be injured.