Novak Djokovic to play in US Open despite controversies

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic confirmed that he will be participating in the upcoming US Open.

Despite the ill-fated Adria Tour Exhibition tournament he organized that caused havoc in Serbia and to his co-tennis players and coaches, Djokovic said that he has already fully recovered since contracting COVID-19.

“It was not an easy decision to make with all the obstacles and challenges on many sides, but the prospect of competing again makes me really excited,” said Djokovic.

Djokovic and his team are currently finalizing their preparations before flying to the US for the August 31 slated tournament.

However, for the first time, the 2020 US Open will be without fan favorites Rafael Nadal who opted to sit out due to COVID-19 fears and Roger Federer who is currently doing rehab after his successful knee surgery.

Also, one of the most charismatic tennis stars, Nick Kyrgios, will be absent in the prized tournament together with women’s world no.1 Ashleigh Barty.

“Unfortunately for the players and the game itself, the current situation is not allowing everyone to travel and compete at the same level of risk, and I hope the situation will change soon and we will all be back to doing what we love and do best,” added Djokovic.