There are only a few days left for the US Open 2022. Since the rules at the border have not changed, the absence of Novak Djokovic is almost certain. The former world number 1, who is in Serbia these days, does not appear in the promotional banner of the tournament.
The Serbian champion is destined to miss the last major of the season, after he was forced to give up the Australian Open at the beginning of the year. The 35-year-old from Belgrade has paid dearly for his choice not to get vaccinated against Coronavirus and risks sinking further into the standings.
Nole was unable to participate in any of the American Masters 1000 (Indian Wells, Miami, Montreal and Cincinnati), in addition to having suffered serious image damage due to his position on the anti-Covid vaccine. The ‘Djoker’ lifted his season by winning Wimbledon for the seventh time in his career.
By doing so, he shortened the gap that separates him from Rafael Nadal in the all-time Grand Slam standings. In an exclusive interview with the ‘Tennis365’ portal, Laura Robson analyzed Djokovic’s situation in detail.
Robson reflects on Djokovic
“There is something he could do about it, of course, but ultimately tennis is such a minor blip in the US government’s policy,” Robson said. “I can’t imagine that they will change it for one person, as nice as it would be for the tennis world.
You would think (he would be favourite if he played). The way he came through at Wimbledon, Novak Djokovic just never really looked in doubt. Every time he was in trouble he found another gear or five more gears. There’s not a lot we can do about him not being there, but it’s a shame for the tournament”.
Robson also gave us her verdict on Nick Kyrgios‘ US Open hopes, after his run to the Wimbledon final last month. The unpredictable Aussie will be seeded in New York and Robson believes he could enjoy a lengthy run into the second week once more.
“I’m glad that he has backed it up,” she added. “Being in the final (at Wimbledon) has given him a push in the right direction. He finally has realised that this is where he should be with his talent and it seems like the fast courts in the United States are perfect for him.
He just brings such a different dynamic to the game. Get people involved and passionate, whether they like him or not.”
