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Djokovic and Dimitrov still unsure about US Open participation

Novak Djokovic and Grigor Dimitrov say they’re both still unsure about competing at the US Open...



Djokovic and Dimitrov still un...
Other Sports

Djokovic and Dimitrov still unsure about US Open participation

Novak Djokovic and Grigor Dimitrov say they’re both still unsure about competing at the US Open

Last night, Rafa Nadal confirmed he wouldn’t be defending his title in New York due to concerns regarding COVID-19.

The tournament is due to get underway behind closed doors, and under strict medical protocols, at Flushing Meadows on August 31.

Nadal and women's world no.1 Ashleigh Barty are the two biggest-name absentees for the New York Grand Slam.

Djokovic and Dimitrov were both named among the list of entries by the US Tennis Association on Tuesday.

But world number 1 Djokovic says he’ll make a final decision on his participation in the next few days.

While Dimitrov says he’ll consult with Djokovic before making a call either way. 

The pair were among those to contract coronavirus after the misguided Adria Tour events organised by Djokovic in the Balkans.

World no.19 Dimitrov was the first player from the Adria Tour to fall victim to the virus.

"The worst thing is that you don't know what to expect," the Bulgarian said on Wednesday.

"I was active all my life and suddenly I was forced to calm down. I didn't feel well. I recognized various symptoms, I didn't smell and taste.

"I didn't mind being alone. I've been living independently since I was 12. What scared me was not knowing what I was struggling with.

"I was afraid my body would go off. I haven't fully recovered yet, but it's better for everyone I have to be patient and I hope to be in full fitness soon."

Asked if he would be among those competing at the US Open, Dimitrov replied, "To be honest, I don't know. It's hard for Europeans because we have to travel 12 hours to New York, change a few planes, then go to a hotel, then to a 'bubble'.

"It's not easy. If someone got infected, everything would get even more complicated.

"At the moment I can't say whether I will play or not."

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Adria Open Coronavirus Covid-19 Grigor Dimitrov Novak Djokovic Rafa Nadal Tennis US Open