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Novak Djokovic confirms his participation at US Open

Men's world no.1 Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will play at this year's US Open.  The Grand Sl...



Novak Djokovic confirms his pa...
Other Sports

Novak Djokovic confirms his participation at US Open

Men's world no.1 Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will play at this year's US Open. 

The Grand Slam is due to get underway behind closed doors at Flushing Meadows on August 31.

However, the tournament has been beset by a number of high-profile withdrawals owing to fears related to COVID-19.

Defending men's champion Rafa Nadal and women's world no.1 Ashleigh Barty are just two of those who won't be travelling to New York this month.

Djokovic has created his own coronavirus-related controversies this summer.

He was among a number of competitors to contract the virus after organising the Adria Tour in Serbia and Croatia.

Djokovic will arrive in the United States on August 15, and will compete in the Western & Southern Open.

The traditional US Open warm-up event has been moved from Cincinnati to the Billie Jean King Tennis Centre in New York.

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

"During my career, I have played some of my best matches at the USTA Billie Jean King National tennis centre.

"I am aware that this time around it will be very different with all the protocols and safety measures that are put in place to protect players and people of NY.

"Nevertheless, I have trained hard with my team and got my body in shape so I am ready to adapt to new conditions.

"I’ve done all the check-ups to make sure I am fully recovered and I am ready to get back on court fully committed to playing my best tennis.

"I respect and appreciate everyone taking time, effort, and energy to organise these two events for the tennis players to be able to go back to their working field.

"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."

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Read more about

Adria Tour Ashleigh Barty Coronavirus Covid-19 Flushing Meadows Novak Djokovic Rafa Nadal Tennis US Open Western Southern Open