Novak Djokovic’s imminent return to the Australian Open will likely be good for tennis, in accordance fellow nice Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic arrived in Australia this week and can compete within the first of two Adelaide International tournaments earlier than the opening grand slam of 2023 begins on January 16.
In January this 12 months, the 21-time grand slam winner was deported from Australia after being prevented from collaborating on the final version of the occasion, having initially been granted a medical exemption to enter the nation regardless of not being vaccinated towards COVID-19.
There have been issues Djokovic would then be banned from getting into Australia once more, however a change in border entry guidelines means travellers are now not obliged to supply proof of their vaccination standing.
While Djokovic’s presence could signify a blow to Nadal’s hopes of defending the title he clinched within the Serbian’s absence final 12 months, the Spaniard is happy to see him participating.
“Novak is here, it’s good for tennis, probably good for the fans,” Nadal stated. “Let’s see. [Having the] best players on court is always better.”
Meanwhile, 22-time grand slam champion Nadal noticed his former long-time rival Roger Federer retire this 12 months, however he’s not seeking to observe go well with regardless of being affected by accidents in latest months.
Asked whether or not his upcoming look on the Australian Open may very well be his final, the 36-year-old stated: “As a professional, you never know. Hopefully not.
“I imply, when you’re on the age of 36, you by no means know when it is going to be the final one. It’s apparent, however I do not like to speak about that as a result of I’m not in that temper now.
“I’m just focused on trying to play at the highest level possible and giving myself a possibility to keep being competitive, to fight for anything.
“That’s my purpose now, I’m not fascinated with it being my final time right here. If that is the final time, let’s attempt to get pleasure from it as a lot as doable and attempt to create one thing particular.
“I am happy doing what I am doing. I’m looking forward to still doing this.”
