Djokovic denies Nadal and Federer’s absence as an advantage; says, “I love playing US Open”

Novak Djokovic has decided to travel to the States for the upcoming US Open, amidst the pandemic still raging there. Fans are speculating that he has decided to participate only due to the absence of his two biggest rivals – Roger Federer and US Open defending champion Rafael Nadal.

Now, Djokovic has recently addressed media via a video conference and explained his decision. He further talked about his aspirations for the American hardcourt.

Djokovic denies Rafael Nadal’s part in his decision

Novak Djokovic openly denied the speculation that Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal from the US Open this year gave him ‘advantage’ to participate in US Open.

“I did not make my decision to come because Rafael Nadal withdrew,” said the World No. 1. “I had already decided to come several months ago…I wanted to resume on hard because it is a surface on which I feel very comfortable. It’s on hard that I’ve had the most success. I love playing the US Open.” He further explained.

Djokovic further explained that his issues over travelling were only because of quarantine rules on his return to Europe. The Clay courts will open in full swing after the US Open and Djokovic wanted to participate in them as well.

“I had decided to come, but I was not sure that it could be possible because certain points had to be clarified, in particular, the absence of quarantine on return to Europe.“ Djokovic asserted.

The World No.1 further denied the claims that he was the runaway favorite for US Open. Hd believes that given the absence of players from professional tennis, any player could win at any point of time.

“Each Grand Slam is a title opportunity, but I am not the only one. It would be really disrespectful to say that I have better luck without Roger and Rafa for all the other players. Thiem, Zverev, Tsitsipas, Medvedev are as strong as the three of us. Anyone can win, especially after six months without a circuit because we don’t really know how we’re going to feel on the court.“ the 17-time Grand Slam champion asserted.

Djokovic further claimed that he wasn’t himself sure about travelling until the last week. “Things were so unpredictable. In the end of the day, it is positive we are here. There are going to be a lot of people around the world who think we should not play tennis, that no public gathering should happen. I understand that fully. I really do.” Novak concluded.

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