Mats Wilander thinks inclusion of Novak Djokovic in the 2023 Australian Open is vital for the success of the tournament
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Mats Wilander and Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic had a terrible start to his season as he was asked to leave Australia a single day before the start of the Australian Open due to his unvaccinated status against Covid-19. He missed out on the US Open too due to the same reason and many other prestigious ATP tournaments.
That’s not all, he was also slapped with three years visa ban. But finally after a slew of legal efforts, the Federal Government of Australia decided in favor of Novak Djokovic and has permitted him to play in the 2023 Australian Open, much to the delight of his fans and viewers.
Former Swedish player Mats Wilander in an interview talked in length about Novak Djokovic and the controversy which led to the Serbian’s disgraceful exit from Down Under.
“It’s obviously really important for him [Djokovic’s Australian Open inclusion]. We had to guess last time he wasn’t allowed in Australia. He must have been heartbroken,” he said.
“We have no idea how he felt because he was very good at hiding it. For the game, this is most probably the most single important piece of news since Covid-19 hit the first time because we were stuck in this race between the biggest, greatest three players of all time on the men’s side, with three different contrasting styles coming up at different times,” Continuing his train of thought, he further added.
Mr. Wilander also expressed his opinion on how Novak Djokovic helped to make male tennis more interesting and how important he is for the sport.
“Roger pushing the envelope, Nadal pushing Roger, and then Novak coming to a kind of ‘spoil the party. If Novak had not been allowed [to play unvaccinated], the history of our game would have become completely irrelevant. The numbers of Grand Slams would have become completely irrelevant if Novak wasn’t able to play anymore,” he noted.
Novak Djokovic will be eyeing bagging the upcoming Australian Open singles title for a record tenth time. He would also be eyeing winning the 22nd Grand Slam title of his career, equaling tennis legend Rafael Nadal’s incredible record.
Novak Djokovic- GOAT or not?
Novak Djokovic is one of those players who is known for his grit and determination on court. He is 35 years old and still fit like a youngster. He has won almost all titles in his long career.
He won 21 Grand Slam singles titles. He won an Olympic medal. He helped his country Serbia to clinch the Davis Cup title in 2010. He also won the sixth ATP Finals title of his career this November.
The debate of who is the GOAT amongst The Big Three- Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic is eternal. The fans of each tennis player too regularly indulge themselves in these discussions. However, everyone agrees that they are a splendid trio who made tennis exciting and popular.
Also Read: Casper Ruud hopes to make a big haul in 2023 following his “over-achieving” season this year
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