BEVERLY HILLS, March 20, (THEWILL) – On Friday, world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic pulled out of the upcoming Miami Open. Citing coronavirus restrictions, the Serb joined the pair of Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Swiss Roger Federer on the sideline, after the duo earlier pulled out due mostly to injury concerns.
The Open is a professional men and women’s tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts that is scheduled to be played from March 22 to April 4. The 2021 edition will be the 36th of the Open and will allow only 750 fans on the grounds per session to adhere to COVID -19 health and safety protocols.
In a statement that explained why he pulled out Djokovic said: “I decided to use this precious time at home to stay with my family. With all restrictions, I need to find balance in my time on tour and at home.”
This last Tuesday, Nadal pulled out with a bad back that bothered him during the season Grand Slam opener in Melbourne. Federer, who mounted an inspired comeback from knee surgery in Doha, Qatar, withdrew on the 1st of March.
As the pandemic continues to infringe on attendance by players, Miami Open tournament director James Blake displayed his understanding of the circumstances in a statement that read in part: “This has been a difficult year for everyone, but especially for players with families.”
In that first Slam of the ATP season, Djokovic battled through pain and grit to take his 18th Grand Slam title. The Serb, who recently broke Federer’s record of 310 total weeks in the top spot, is in his 312th career week at the summit of the sport.
It will be the first time, with Djokovic’s absence, that none of the big three will be playing in Florida at the Miami Open in the men’s game. That will dampen the enthusiasm for the spectators but it will give those who compete a shot at victory without the ominous shadow of the trio bearing over them.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
