The organizers of the Australian Open have confirmed world number one Novak Djokovic as a participant in the Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne. The Serb is next to the tennis world number one Ashley Barty “at the top of the outstanding player fields”, it said on Wednesday on the website of the organizer. The American Serena Williams will not be there. The Australian Open starts on January 17th.
There is speculation in Australian media that Djokovic (34) could apply for a special permit to start the first Grand Slam of the new year and defend his title. Only fully vaccinated players are allowed to take part in the tournament, but Djokovic leaves his vaccination status open with a reference to privacy.
Tennis Australia had previously confirmed that every athlete must meet the strict requirements of the health authorities. “This includes a certified vaccination certificate or a valid medical exemption that has been approved by the Australian health authorities,” said the umbrella organization, according to local media.
Deputy Prime Minister James Merlino said there were only a limited number of reasons for a waiver. “Everyone is looking forward to the Australian Open and everyone who will be attending – spectators, players, officials, staff – is expected to be fully vaccinated. Those are the rules. Medical exemptions are just that – it is not a loophole for the privileged Tennis player, “said Merlino, according to ABC. “It is a medical exception in exceptional circumstances when you have an acute illness.”
The organizers of the ATP Cup had previously announced on Tuesday that Djokovic was part of the Serbian team for the team competition from January 1st to 9th in Sydney.
The seven-time Australian Open winner Serena Williams is not at the start on the advice of her doctors. “Although this decision is never easy to make, I’m not where I need to be physically to compete,” Williams said in a message from the host.
“Melbourne is one of my favorite cities that I visit and I look forward to playing here every year. I will miss seeing the fans, but I look forward to going back and competing at my highest level,” she said Longstanding world number one and 23-time Grand Slam winner. The 40-year-old Williams is currently ranked 41st in the world.
It was already clear for a long time that superstar Roger Federer would be missing, he does not plan to return to the ATP tour until summer 2022. His compatriot and 2014 winner Stan Wawrinka, the almost 37-year-old Swiss who has two foot operations behind him, has also canceled.
–
