Tracy Austin: "Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 2022? I don't know "
by LORENZO CIOTTI | VIEW 4185
The health restrictions recently announced by the Australian government have cast doubt on Novak Djokovic's participation in the first Grand Slam of 2022. Unlike what was said last week, it seems that unvaccinated players will be admitted to the country, but will have to undergo two weeks of quarantine lasts (without even the opportunity to train).
The world number 1 has confided that his presence at the Australian Open is far from certain, avoiding to reveal whether or not he has received the vaccine against COVID-19. The 20-time Grand Slam champion hasn't played an official match since the final of the US Open, clearly lost to Daniil Medvedev.
That defeat cost him the chance to win the Grand Slam and overtake eternal rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. The 34-year-old Serbian will return to action at Paris-Bercy, which he will use as a preparation meeting for the ATP Finals and Davis Cup finals.
In a recent conversation on the Tennis Channel, Tracy Austin said Nole's eventual absence in Melbourne wouldn't surprise her.
Tracy Austin talks about Djokovic
Tracy said: "Novak Djokovic is on the hunt for his 21st Grand Slam, it's not a mystery.
However, not wanting to get vaccinated may be even more important than Major's all-time record. I'm not at all sure we'll see Nole at the 2022 Australian Open. We understand that there will be very strong restrictions for the unvaccinated and I would like to speculate that he is part of this category.
There was also quarantine in 2021, but everyone did it and tennis players were given the opportunity to train. Vaccinated players will have a huge advantage by not having to quarantine." Former ATP number 74 Nicolas Pereira also talked about the sissue: "This is a very personal decision and we know that Novak is very keen on his health.
Having won nine Australian Open and being his favorite tournament, I have no doubt that he has the desire to play."
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