“We haven’t given up,” Novak Djokovic still hoping to play in Miami says coach Goran Ivanisevic
Djokovic remains optimistic about playing in Miami despite challenges
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Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic‘s coach, Goran Ivanisevic has revealed that the world No.1 is still optimistic about receiving an exemption from Covid-19 travel restrictions to compete in the Miami Open. However, Djokovic’s current vaccination status prevents him from entering the United States, despite being a five-time Indian Wells and six-time Miami Open champion.
Although the US is expected to lift its travel restrictions for unvaccinated non-citizens in May, Djokovic’s exemption request was previously rejected before the Indian Wells tournament. He already withdrew his name from the ongoing Indian Wells Open after the government of U.S.A rejected his request. However, he has been receiving a lot of support from the people in the states.
Speaking to the Tennis Majors, his coach said, “We haven’t given up (on Miami). He wants to play and I would love it if they allow him – it would be great both for him and for tennis. If not, it’s not the end of the world, he didn’t play last year as well. The most important thing is that we find out soon so that we can make a plan.”
Although Djokovic wants to play in Miami, he is not particular either too according to his coach. If the ban is not lifted Djokovic will shift his focus to the upcoming clay season. On the other hand, fans are already missing the likes of Roger Federer and Serena Williams as they retired. In addition, they also missed out on the opportunity to watch Rafael Nadal who is recovering from an injury.
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Novak Djokovic eyes on the clay season
After a fantastic start to this year for the Serbian, he now is already focusing on the upcoming Roland Garros. His main competitor, Rafael Nadal has already started his preparations for the French Open. Both of them will be eying for their 23rd Grand Slam title and it will be an exciting context between these two players.
Djokovic’s coach said, “In terms of preparing for the European clay-court season, I’m not sure playing in Miami is the best solution. It depends on Novak – in the past, he has triumphed in Monte Carlo having played in Indian Wells and Miami. If he is mentally ready and in his fighter mode, like he was in Australia, then anything is possible.”
Although everyone would like to see Djokovic play in as many tournaments as possible, it’s up to him to decide his choices. In addition, if Carlos Alcaraz could manage to in Indian Wells, he is likely to overtake Novak Djokovic to claim the No.1 rankings in the ATP charts.
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Santhosh Tenneti
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