“But nothing yet is being concretely done on that behalf, so we’ll have to wait and see,” World no. 1 Novak Djokovic talks about the Serbia Open becoming an ATP 500 tournament
Follow Us
Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic has had a poor start to the season. This season, the Serb has only competed in two tournaments, both of which he has exited early. He had previously lost the World Number One ranking to Daniil Medvedev before quickly reclaiming it. Djokovic is currently playing at the Serbia Open in his hometown of Belgrade. He talked about his family’s expertise in operating the tournament in his own nation during his pre-tournament news conference.
An interviewer asked the Serb if the tournament would be upgraded to a 500-level ATP tournament during the interview. “, he explained, “In terms of the category upgrades… First of all, we are not the owners of this license-we are leasing the license. So, we do have the intention to propose and make an agreement with the current owners to purchase the license; and then, when that’s done, we can think and talk about possible upgrades.”
He further adds, “But, there is a possibility in this week [of the tennis calendar]. I know because ATP management has communicated that to me and to the players a few years ago. But nothing yet is being concretely done on that behalf, so we’ll have to wait and see.”
Novak Djokovic on his family running the Serbia Open
Running a tournament is not a piece of cake for any individual. But here is what the Serbian has to say regarding the matter,” The previous experience really helped to approach the organization of every next year of the tournament here in Belgrade more thoughtfully, and with more understanding what players, coaches, guests, visitors, fans need in order to get the best possible experience for everybody involved. As an active player, of course, I care a lot about how players feel. So, you know, we try to make sure that they have enough courts, training facilities, gym, accommodation, food, resting area.”
He goes on to say, “We are a little bit limited with the space, you know and it’s not easy because it’s a big international sporting event that attracts a lot of people and players and guests from everywhere. But we try to make sure that we satisfy the needs of everyone involved… Weather is not something that we can affect; it’s a little bit cold; but, hopefully, by the end of the week, it’ll get warmer, and then we’ll have more people coming in and creating even a better show for everyone in the stands.”
We hope that the Serbian Open really does become a circuit tournament for showcasing their talent and skills as it really would be an interesting way to continue playing in a season.
Novak Djokovic has been given a bye in the first round of the Serbia Open, despite being a 20-time Grand Slam winner. He’ll play the winner of Hamad Medjedovic vs. Laslo Djere in the second round. Is it possible for Djokovic to reclaim his mojo in his home city? We only hope that is the case.
Stay Updated!
Harini Mahesh
(159 Articles Published)