Djokovic: “I hope they receive me decently in Australia”

The 2023 season looms. Tennis does not rest and, after the last pre-season commitments, the players begin to focus on their first goals. Novak Djokovic, who has added minutes on his racket in the World Tennis LeagueHe is already thinking about the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year (January 16-29). After his notorious absence in this year’s edition, with deportation included due to his refusal to get vaccinated, the Serb will return to the oceanic event. “After what happened last year, I hope I get a decent reception there and that it can help me play some good tennis.”, Nole has declared for Arab News, in Dubai, where the aforementioned exhibition tournament has been held.

According to his official calendar, Djokovic will set foot in Australia first. The Adelaide International 1 will be his last test before the Grand Slam. It will not be in the new United Cup (from December 29 to January 8), in the Australian cities of Brisbane, Perth and Sydney, after Serbia was not included in the 18 countries that, in a mixed way, will compete. “I always demand the best of myself, so we’ll see. Over the years I have been very lucky to start very strong in Australia and I love playing there.” adds Novak thinking of his reappearance in the major.

Despite starting the season in a convulsive way, in 2022, Djokovic has added five titles. Among them, a Masters 1,000 (Rome), his 21st major (Wimbledon) and the Masters Cup. Tel Aviv and Astana complete the collection of a strange, but also successful year. “I have said a thousand times how unusual this season has been for me. I will not repeat it, but it is a great relief and satisfaction. I look forward to having a couple of weeks off, because I have been all year between pins, waiting for permits to go to some places. So I’m glad we handled it positively.” Nole said after beating Casper Ruud at the ATP Finals. In January, he will be looking for his 10th Australian Open.