‘It’s sad that people might remember him in this way!’ Naomi Osaka speaks on Novak Djokovic’s visa debacle, says she knows ‘what it’s like to kind of be in his situation’
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Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka
The first major of the year- Australian Open is just a couple of days away and players have geared up for the same. After two weeks on tune up tournaments, athletes will be looking to get things right when it matters. The media day for the megaevent is also underway and 4-time grand slam champion Naomi Osaka too has spoken to the press.
Amidst various topics, the highlight of the press conference was once again- Novak Djokovic. The Serbian maestro is currently in a virtual battle with the Australian government regarding his visa and potential participation in the Australian Open. When asked about her fellow defending champion, Naomi stated the situation as ‘unfortunate’.
She said that everyone will have different opinions on the matter and the more they speak- controversies are bound to be created. She also said that she believes her thoughts aren’t important/
“Yeah, honestly for me, in a way I don’t really think my thoughts are important,” she said. “Even if I say what I think, I’ve seen people say one side, I’ve seen people say the other side. I also know, like, one person’s opinion isn’t going to change anything, it’s just going to cause my controversy.”
She added that it is very sad that people will remember such a great player in this way. “I think it’s an unfortunate situation. Like, he’s such a great player and it’s kind of sad that some people might remember in this way. But I also think it’s up to not tennis players, it’s up to the government how Australia is deciding to handle it,” she added.
Naomi recalled that she herself was in a similar situation last year and hence can relate with Djokovic’s scenario. She said that it’s not the greatest thing and everyone including Djokovic should remain positive.
“Yeah, I know what it’s like to kind of be in his situation in a place that you’re getting asked about that person, to just see comments from other players, it’s not the greatest thing. Just trying to keep it positive,” Naomi said.
Osaka all set to defend her Australian Open title
The defending champion also revealed her excitement about participating Down Under once again. She also said that she has recovered completely and has no niggles as of now.
“I’m really excited to be back. I guess playing in Rod Laver[Arena] makes me really happy!” she said. “As athletes we have niggles all the time. It’s kind of impossible to play a slam without feeling something. I’m also aware that you can’t be perfect all the time.”
Naomi will begin her Australian Open campaign against Camila Osorio on Monday and has received a very tough draw. She could face Belinda Bencic in the third round and is likely to face top seed and World No.1 Ash Barty in a blockbuster Round of 16 clash.
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Lakshya Chopra
(2611 Articles Published)