Rafael Nadal has expressed his regret when Novak Djokovic could not take part in the 2022 US Open.
The Serbian tennis player was not allowed to enter the United States due to not being vaccinated against COVID-19. This is also the reason why Djokovic missed the Australian Open earlier this year.
Speaking at his press conference, Nadal expressed his regret that the 2022 US Open lacked a world-class player.
“From my personal perspective, it’s very sad news. It’s always a shame when the best players of the world are not able to play a tournament because of injuries or because of different reasons.” Nadal said.
“In this case, not having one of the best players of history in the draw of a Grand Slam is always an important miss. It’s tough for the fans, tough for the tournament.
“In my opinion, tough for the players, too, because we want to have the best field possible. But, on the other hand, I repeat what I said plenty of times: the sport in some ways is bigger than any player.” Nadal added.
Following the US Open, Nadal and Djokovic will have the chance to reunite in the Laver Cup. Both have confirmed that they will join Europe together. It is unclear whether the Spaniard will play in any tournament prior to the Laver Cup.
World number one Daniil Medvedev is also disappointed not to see Djokovic in New York. The Russian shocked the sport with his straight sets win over Djokovic at last year’s US Open.
“I wish he would play here. The rivalry against Rafa (Nadal) is really I feel heating up in a way. 22, 21 (Grand Slams), a joke of a number.” Medvedev said.
“It’s a pity he is not here. It would be a great story I think for tennis. Not only tennis-wise, but it’s not us tennis players, it’s American government rules. Completely understandable also.” he added.
