Novak Djokovic leaves the ATP Cup, raising questions about his participation in the Australian Open

Novak Djokovic withdrew from the ATP Cup on Wednesday, fueling speculation about the world No. 1 losing to the upcoming Australian Open. The ATP refused to give Djokovic a reason to withdraw, and the 20-time Grand Slam winner does not face any known injuries.

The ATP Cup kicks off on January 1 in Sydney, 16 days before the start of the Australian Open in Melbourne. Dusan Lajovic will replace Djokovic on the Serbian list for the ATP Cup in a team event in 16 countries.

The situation of Djokovic’s COVID-19 vaccine could have been very well taken into account in his decision. The ATP Cup did not impose a vaccination order, but the Australian Open requires each player to be beaten – or medically exempted – to compete. Djokovic has repeatedly refused to say whether he is vaccinated.

Speaking to the Melbourne media last week, Australian Open Director Craig Tiley was adamant that his tournament would not allow the participation of unvaccinated players, regardless of their stellar status.

“If Novak appears in the Australian Open, she will be vaccinated or have a medical exemption,” Tiley said. The Guardian.

Djokovic, the Australian Open champion, is on the tournament registration list despite doubts about his participation. He has won the Grand Slam test nine times, including last year.

In late November, Srdjan Djokovic, Novak’s father told Serbian television that his son would “probably” miss his chance to defend his Australian Open title. on the tournament vaccination order.

“In these blackmail and conditions, he probably won’t [play]. I wouldn’t do that. And it’s my son, so it’s up to you to decide for yourself, ”Srdjan Djokovic told BBC Sport. or not. … No one has the right to enter our privacy. ”

Djokovic’s 20 Grand Slam singles caps are tied with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer the most ever. All three players are skipping the Australian Open, with the latter two injured.