Novak Djokovic and the Australian Open - evidence, but no decision
Novak Djokovic is on the entry list at both the ATP Cup and the Australian Open. But that's not a guarantee for a trip down under.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Dec 07, 2021, 06:00 pm
After major doubts recently, there are first signs that Novak Djokovic could start at the Australian Open that begins on January 17th. As has become known in the past few days, the world rankings for the ATP Cup and the first Grand Slam tournament of the year are on the entry list.
In Melbourne, according to the requirements of the state of Victoria, only vaccinated players are allowed to start, Djokovic had not made clear statements about his vaccination status and a start at the Australian Open until recently. In some places Djokovic's appearance on the Entry Lists was interpreted as final confirmation of a trip to Down Under, but the situation is not that clear.
Because with his provisional acceptance for the ATP Cup, the 20-time Grand Slam winner secured a starting place for the Serbian team. Nations only qualify for the ATP Cup by placing their top players. Should Djokovic still cancel, Serbia should still take part in the team competition.
On the other hand, Djokovic should not have used any potential tactical calculation in terms of the Australian Open, as he automatically ended up on the entry list like all the other players. Accordingly, it is entirely possible that the Serb simply wanted to gain time for his decision-making. Djokovic will soon provide clarification himself anyway - and thus remove all doubts. Either way.