Nadal’s finger pointing at Djokovic. “The sport is bigger than any player.”

Ahead of his opening game at the US Open, Rafael Nadal talks about Novak Djokovic’s absence. Despite all the regrets, the Spaniard does not want to overestimate the bitter loss for the tournament, fans and players.

Almost three years ago, Rafael Nadal defeated Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set final to win his fourth US Open title. Since then, however, the Spaniard has not played a game in Flushing Meadows. After two cancellations in a row due to injuries, the anticipation of returning this year is all the greater. «I’m happy to be back. It is undoubtedly one of the most important places in my career, »Nadal made clear at the press conference before the start of the tournament.

The abdominal muscle injury, which is keeping him out of action ahead of the Wimbledon semifinals in July, complicates preparations for the final Grand Slam tournament of the year. Nadal can only play the tournament in Cincinnati, where he promptly loses his opening game against Borna Coric. “I do things the best I can. I hope I’m ready for action, »the 36-year-old keeps the expectations for the US Open correspondingly low.

Nevertheless, Nadal is one of the biggest contenders for the triumph in New York – also due to the absence of Novak Djokovic, who is not vaccinated against Corona and is therefore not allowed to enter the USA.

“From my point of view, this is very sad news,” said Nadal when asked about the Serb’s absence. “Not having one of the best players in history in the tableau of a Grand Slam tournament is a big loss. It’s tough for the fans and the tournament – and I think it’s tough for the players too, because we want the best possible field.”

However, it has been known for months that Djokovic cannot compete in certain places unless the rules change. Nadal expresses his sympathy for his opponent, but he also emphasizes: “The sport is in a way bigger than any player.” After all, he himself missed the last two years due to injuries. “Even if it’s not good news for everyone, the world keeps turning and tennis will continue after me, Novak and Roger. That’s the way it is.”

So Nadal can hardly wait for the upcoming Laver Cup at the end of September in London, where he will now compete together with Djokovic and Federer. “I’m really looking forward to seeing Roger back on the pitch. I hope he’s healthy enough to do it,” says the 36-year-old, and with a smile he makes the tennis world hope for a joint appearance with the maestro: “If the captain chooses us as a doubles partner, why not?”

First of all, the focus of the 22-time Grand Slam champion is on the major tournament in New York. To start off, Nadal meets Rinky Hijikata from Australia on Wednesday night.

US Open 2022

Mi 31.08. 03:00 – 06:00 ∙ Eurosport 2 D ∙ 180 Min