Former pro Greg Rusedski comes in support of Novak Djokovic over Madrid withdrawal

Former pro Greg Rusedski comes in support of Novak Djokovic over Madrid withdrawal

Novak Djokovic

World No.1, Novak Djokovic’s defeat to Aslan Karatsev in the semifinals of the recently concluded Serbia Open left tennis fans in shock. Furthermore, the Serb even announced that he won’t be playing the upcoming Madrid Masters next month.

Djokovic has historically done well at the Spanish capital, having won the event on three occasions. Considering, Djokovic’s early elimination in Monte Carlo and Belgarde, one would have thought that he would show up in Madrid.

However, the 18-time Grand Slam champion has chosen to play the Rome Masters and travel back to his country to play another warm-up tournament before the French Open.

Three time winner in Madrid will drop 500 points

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic

Supporting Djokovic’s statement, former US Open finalist, Greg Rusedski explained on twitter, “Everyone is talking about Novak Djokovic not playing Madrid. Let’s remember playing in Madrid is nothing like Roland Garros with the bounce and altitude. Maybe Novak would like to support his home event & try a new lead up schedule. Hard to argue with someone with 18 majors!”

“It all depends how far he goes & maybe he prefers to play matches instead of practice. I am sure he will get an extra day rest if he wins the event leading up to RG,” Rusedski added.

Since Djokovic is the defending champion, he will lose 500 points as per the latest ATP rules. Home favourite, Rafael Nadal will automatically become the top seed at the event now.

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