Novak Djokovic: US Open hygiene restrictions 'extreme' and 'really impossible'

• Tennis News
• Novak Djokovic

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was straight honest when giving his opinion on the strict hygiene restrictions under which the US Open is likely to be played. The United States Tennis Association is keen on hosting the US Open this year and they are considering multiple scenarios to ensure the safety and health of players.

Djokovic understands the efforts of the US Open organizers but he suggests the strict hygiene restrictions are "extreme." "Just yesterday I had a telephone conversation with the leaders of world tennis, there were talks about the continuation of the season, mostly about the US Open due in late August, but it is not known whether it will be held," the 33-year-old Serb told Prva TV television, as revealed on Sport24.

"The rules that they told us that we would have to respect to be there, to play at all, they are extreme." Djokovic, a 17-time Grand Slam champion, suggets a full team is essential. "We would not have access to Manhattan, we would have to sleep in hotels at the airport, to be tested twice or three times per week," Djokovic said.

"Also, we could bring one person to the club which is really impossible. "I mean, you need your coach, then a fitness trainer, then a physiotherapist. "All their suggestions are really rigorous but I can understand that due to financial reasons, due to already existing contracts, organisers (want the event to be) held.

We will see what will happen."

Novak Djokovic's big rival Rafael Nadal says the safety is key for the return of tennis

The US Open organizers are still hoping to stage the event as initially scheduled from August 31 - September 13.

"We cannot resume until the situation is completely safe and fair in terms of health in that all players, wherever they come from, can travel and play tournaments in safe conditions," Nadal told reporters in a video conference call.

"If you told me to play the US Open today, I would say 'no' "In a few months, I don't know. I hope so. We have to wait for people to return to normal life. And when it does, wait to see how the virus evolves." Novak Djokovic has won three titles at the US Open over the course of his career and his last title at Flushing Meadows came in 2018.