Novak Djokovic named in Serbia’s team for January’s ATP Cup despite uncertainty over his vaccination status.
After months of speculation that Novak Djokovic may miss the Australian Open over tough Covid vaccination requirements, the world No 1 was on Tuesday named to play in a Sydney tournament weeks before. The 34-year-old world number one has yet to reveal whether he has been vaccinated against Covid-19.
However, he was listed as part of the five-man Serbia team when the draw was made for the ATP Cup in Sydney that will precede the opening major of the year. The record nine-time Australian Open champion has yet to commit to defend his title in Melbourne after organizers confirmed that all players would need to be vaccinated.
Djokovic contracted Covid-19 during the ill-fated Adria Tour event he organised in the Balkans in June 2020, but said he did not suffer from any symptoms.
Russia are the defending ATP Cup champions after their team spearheaded by Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev swept past a Matteo Berrettini-led Italy in the final.
Serbia have been drawn alongside Norway, Chile and Spain in Group A for the season-opening tournament, which will feature 16 teams and be hosted across two venues at the Sydney Olympic Park from 1-9 January.
However, Rafael Nadal will not feature for Spain as he continues his return from injury although the 20-time Grand Slam winner last month suggested he would play an exhibition in Abu Dhabi this month, then another tournament before arriving in Melbourne for the Australian Open.
