After the Tokyo Olympics disappointment, Novak Djokovic pulled out from the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Open, the two Masters 1000 events before the US Open 2021. Naturally, fans began to wonder if the Serbian World No.1 would play in New York or not. However, the answer was already out in his statement for Cincinnati withdrawal.
On a tiring schedule since the Australian Open, Djokovic needed a break to recover. Hence, he decided to skip the US Open Series events to get fresh legs for the American Grand Slam. Elaboratively, the 34-year-old “can’t wait” to meet fans at the US Open 2021.
@CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 9, 2021
On a sadder note, Djokovic’s arch-rival and five-time US Open champion Rafael Nadal will not be playing this year. Therefore, he will have to play another US Open without him.
Read More: How does Rafael Nadal’s Exit From the US Open Affect the Race to Turin?
What happened with Novak Djokovic at US Open 2020?
In one of the most bizarre incidents in tennis history, Djokovic received a default from the US Open last year after accidentally hitting a lines umpire in the throat. Accordingly, his run in New York ended in the fourth-round match against Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta.
Although he apologized earnestly, it did not affect the authorities’ decision. As a result, the tennis world saw a Grand Slam event without the ‘Big 3’ in the semifinals or finals after a long time.
Moreover, the Austrian ace Dominic Thiem rose to the occasion and claimed his maiden Grand Slam title. Unfortunately, even he will not participate this year due to a wrist injury.
Read More: Is Roger Federer Playing at the US Open 2021?
Who can stop Djokovic at the US Open after Federer and Nadal’s withdrawal?
Most significantly, Djokovic has a fair opportunity to attain the Calendar Grand Slam at US Open 2021, an unrepeated feat since Rod Laver’s 1969 season. Also, considering his performance to win in Australia, France, and the UK, he would be the favorite to win in the States.
However, every major tournament has its unique challenges. So, it would be interesting to see if Djokovic can complete the ultimate tennis task.
Since the defending champion and his arch-rival are not playing, the responsibility of stopping the Serbian lies on the other next-generation players. Notable challengers are Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, Matteo Berrettini, and others.
All in all, the most exciting two weeks of tennis are soon coming to the Tour. The US Open begins on August 30 and will present the world its champion on September 12.
Who is your favorite for this year’s US Open?
Watch this story: How Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, And Other Tennis Stars Travel
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