US Open: The absence of Novak Djokovic in New York disappointed Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev

Posted at: August 28, 2022

US Open: The absence of Novak Djokovic from the US Open was called “extremely sad news” by Rafael Nadal and “would play here” by world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev.

The Wimbledon champion is skipping his second Grand Slam of the year due to his persistent opposition to receiving the Covid-19 vaccine.

After ultimately giving up hope that the US Government would loosen restrictions in time, Djokovic waited to withdraw until right before the draw on Thursday.

The Serbian’s absence increases Nadal’s chances of winning his 23rd major championship, which would put him two wins ahead of Djokovic in the all-time rankings.

But the Spaniard would rather his rival was in New York, saying: “From my personal perspective, it’s very sad news. It’s always a shame when the best players of the world are not able to play a tournament because of injuries or because of different reasons.

“In this case, not having one of the best players of history in the draw of a Grand Slam is always an important miss. It’s tough for the fans, tough for the tournament. In my opinion, tough for the players, too, because we want to have the best field possible.

“But, on the other hand, I repeat what I said plenty of times: the sport in some ways is bigger than any player.

“I missed a lot of important events in my tennis career because of injuries. Last year I was not here. Two years ago I was not here. The tournament continues. The world of tennis keeps going.”

Medvedev, the current champion, regrets Djokovic’s absence

The number one player in the world, Medvedev, expressed his disappointment at having to begin his US Open title defence without Novak Djokovic.

When he defeated Djokovic in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium to earn his first major championship, the Russian pulled off one of sports’ greatest upsets by preventing the Serbian from completing the calendar Grand Slam.

“I wish he would play here,” Medvedev told reporters. “The rivalry against Rafa (Nadal) is really I feel heating up in a way. 22, 21 (Grand Slams), a joke of a number,” he said referring to the number of major titles won by Nadal and Djokovic respectively.

“It’s a pity he (Djokovic) is not here. It would be a great story I think for tennis. Not only tennis-wise, but it’s not us tennis players, it’s American government rules. Completely understandable also.”

For tennis tournament, tennis championship, tennis live score, tennis court, tennnis live update and other tennis news follow livematchupdatesnews.com.

Priyanka Suriyal

I am a sports reporter and broadcaster, because of my skills as a writer. My writing has been praised by many and has helped me to establish a career in this field.