John McEnroe on Novak Djokovic: "Have to find a way"
John McEnroe hopes Novak Djokovic will be able to compete in the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year in New York City. As of now, this is not possible due to a lack of COVID-19 vaccination.
by Michael Rothschädl
last edit: Jul 23, 2022, 07:49 pm
Wimbledon 2022 has only been beaten for a few days when the US Open is already casting its shadow. And especially with regard to one person: the Wimbledon winner Novak Djokovic. As of now, the fourth major event of the year will take place without the Serbs. Because he will not be allowed to enter the USA if the legal situation remains the same.
In any case, John McEnroe would like to know that the 21-time Grand Slam winner could be prevented from missing in New York City: "I mean, we have to find a way to bring Novak to the US Open," McEnroe told Tennis365. "How can he not be there? He just won Wimbledon, he's a great champion and he should be in the US Open."
Djokovic should play in USA, says McEnrroe
Of course, this dilemma is homemade for the Serb, but McEnroe cannot understand the decision not to be vaccinated: "I do not agree with his decision not to be vaccinated, but I respect it. He is one of the fittest men of the world, and everything he puts into his body, he watches closely," said the American.
The Serb's vaccination status had already caused a stir at the Australian Open - after all, the 35-year-old was expelled from the country before the tournament started: "Now we're saying that he can't play at the US Open because of his decision. I mean, come on . He's already been expelled from Australia for the same reason and here we are again," McEnroe said.
Djokovic could thus lose further ground to Rafael Nadal in the race for most Grand Slam titles, who - if fit - will clearly be one of the title aspirants at the US Open. Especially since the Spaniard has already won two major events in 2022. From Novak Djokovic's point of view, McEnroe is certain: "I hope someone finds a way to clarify this. It's crazy that Novak is missing the US Open at this stage."