Novak Djokovic fought his way into the third round of the Italian Open on Friday, beating Tomas Etcheverry 7-5 (7/6), 6-2 in a surprisingly tight encounter. A six-time winner in Rome, the world number one was made to work by the 61st-ranked Argentine, prevailing in one hour, 51 minutes to set up a third round clash with Grigor Dimitrov, who beat Stan Wawrinka.

Djokovic, a 22-time Grand Slam title winner, has not been knocked out of an ATP Tour event at the first attempt since the Monte Carlo Masters last year. Still nursing an injury to his right elbow he had to battle his way past Etcheverry, winning the first set via a tie-break before finally ensuring passage into the next round.

"I've said before that this surface requires more time for me than maybe for other players to get myself to a good level, move well and hit the ball well. Rome has always been a tournament that I need for Roland Garros," said Djokovic who was plagued by 21 unforced errors in the opener.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-iga-swiatek-thrashes-anastasia-pavlyuchenkova-to-reach-third-round-591781">Italian Open: Iga Swiatek thrashes Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to reach third round</a>

Djokovic appeared unwell at 5-5 in the first set and took a tablet in the changeover.

"You act like you're 100 per cent," Djokovic said. "Most of the times I guess you're not, but you want to show your opponent that you're out there trying to fight for every ball. I guess that's what happened; it's kind of cat-and-mouse always on clay."

Djokovic, 35, has made 12 finals in Rome and said Thursday that he was feeling good ahead of the tournament despite missing last week's Madrid Masters.

Wearing an elbow brace he made a slow start, dropping his serve in the first game and struggling to deal with the Argentine's powerful shots.

The first set hinged on a scrappy game six, in which Djokovic broke to level the scores following a battle at deuce.

From there, the set went with the serve until Djokovic won the final four points in the tie-break to take the lead.

Djokovic then kicked up a level, breaking serve in the first and seventh games of the second set to give the match a more straightforward look than Etcheverry's performance deserved.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic fought his way into the third round of the Italian Open on Friday, beating Tomas Etcheverry 7-5 (7/6), 6-2 in a surprisingly tight encounter. A six-time winner in Rome, the world number one was made to work by the 61st-ranked Argentine, prevailing in one hour, 51 minutes to set up a third round clash with Grigor Dimitrov, who beat Stan Wawrinka.

Novak Djokovic fought his way into the third round of the Italian Open on Friday, beating Tomas Etcheverry 7-5 (7/6), 6-2 in a surprisingly tight encounter. A six-time winner in Rome, the world number one was made to work by the 61st-ranked Argentine, prevailing in one hour, 51 minutes to set up a third round clash with Grigor Dimitrov, who beat Stan Wawrinka. Djokovic, a 22-time Grand Slam title winner, has not been knocked out of an ATP Tour event at the first attempt since the Monte Carlo Masters last year. Still nursing an injury to his right elbow he had to battle his way past Etcheverry, winning the first set via a tie-break before finally ensuring passage into the next round. "I've said before that this surface requires more time for me than maybe for other players to get myself to a good level, move well and hit the ball well. Rome has always been a tournament that I need for Roland Garros," said Djokovic who was plagued by 21 unforced errors in the opener. ALSO READ: Italian Open: Iga Swiatek thrashes Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova to reach third round Djokovic appeared unwell at 5-5 in the first set and took a tablet in the changeover. "You act like you're 100 per cent," Djokovic said. "Most of the times I guess you're not, but you want to show your opponent that you're out there trying to fight for every ball. I guess that's what happened; it's kind of cat-and-mouse always on clay." Djokovic, 35, has made 12 finals in Rome and said Thursday that he was feeling good ahead of the tournament despite missing last week's Madrid Masters. Wearing an elbow brace he made a slow start, dropping his serve in the first game and struggling to deal with the Argentine's powerful shots. The first set hinged on a scrappy game six, in which Djokovic broke to level the scores following a battle at deuce. From there, the set went with the serve until Djokovic won the final four points in the tie-break to take the lead. Djokovic then kicked up a level, breaking serve in the first and seventh games of the second set to give the match a more straightforward look than Etcheverry's performance deserved.

Italian Open: Sluggish Novak Djokovic cruises to third round, beats Tomas Etcheverry in three-set thriller

Novak Djokovic said on Thursday that Carlos Alcaraz is the man to beat at the Italian Open, but reassured fans that he "feels good" after his recent elbow injury. Top seed Djokovic comes into the clay-court tournament, where he has been champion six times, braced to lose top spot in the world rankings to Alcaraz.

The flamboyant Spaniard, fresh from back-to-back clay titles in Barcelona and Madrid, just needs to play a match in the Italian capital to return to the summit ahead of the French Open which starts later this month.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-upbeat-stefanos-tsitsipas-eyes-maiden-french-open-crown-remains-wary-of-star-studded-peers-591506">EXCLUSIVE: Upbeat Stefanos Tsitsipas eyes maiden French Open crown, remains wary of star-studded peers</a>

"He's going to be number one after this tournament and if it happens, it will be deservedly so. He plays very impressive tennis, a great level. He's the player to beat on this surface no doubt," said Djokovic, who starts his title defence against Argentina's Tomas Etcheverry on Friday.

Djokovic won a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January but missed the American hard-court swing in March due to his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid. The 35-year-old has endured a tough start to the European clay-court season, being eliminated in the last 16 at the Monte Carlo Masters, in the quarter-finals at Banja Luka and then pulling out of Madrid with his elbow problem.

However, Djokovic said that he had overcome the physical problems which have blighted this part of his season.

"It's all good. There are always some things here and there that bother you at this level," he added. "It's normal. When you're not 20-25 anymore you experience that a bit more than what used to be the case.

"I feel good... Historically throughout my career Rome has been a very nice tournament for me, I had success in it many times, got to finals.

"It's my most successful clay court event. Coming into the French Open it can be a great springboard for what's coming up in Paris where I want to be at my best."

While Djokovic plots a seventh title in Rome, women's world number two Aryna Sabalenka's hopes of a maiden crown in the Italian capital were crushed. The Australian Open champion, fresh from a clay court title in Madrid last weekend, lost 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 to US world number 134 Sofia Kenin.

Kenin's victory was her first against a top-10 rival since shocking world number one Ashleigh Barty on her way to her surprise Australian Open title three years ago.

Sabalenka had not been defeated before the quarter-finals of any event this year and came into Rome as the match-win leader in 2023 with 29 match wins.

"Obviously super happy, I played really well," former world number four Kenin said. "Of course she's had some great results, great year, so of course going into the match there's not much pressure on my side."

Novak Djokovic said on Thursday that Carlos Alcaraz is the man to beat at the Italian Open, but reassured fans that he "feels good" after his recent elbow injury.

Novak Djokovic said on Thursday that Carlos Alcaraz is the man to beat at the Italian Open, but reassured fans that he "feels good" after his recent elbow injury. Top seed Djokovic comes into the clay-court tournament, where he has been champion six times, braced to lose top spot in the world rankings to Alcaraz. The flamboyant Spaniard, fresh from back-to-back clay titles in Barcelona and Madrid, just needs to play a match in the Italian capital to return to the summit ahead of the French Open which starts later this month. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Upbeat Stefanos Tsitsipas eyes maiden French Open crown, remains wary of star-studded peers "He's going to be number one after this tournament and if it happens, it will be deservedly so. He plays very impressive tennis, a great level. He's the player to beat on this surface no doubt," said Djokovic, who starts his title defence against Argentina's Tomas Etcheverry on Friday. Djokovic won a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January but missed the American hard-court swing in March due to his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid. The 35-year-old has endured a tough start to the European clay-court season, being eliminated in the last 16 at the Monte Carlo Masters, in the quarter-finals at Banja Luka and then pulling out of Madrid with his elbow problem. However, Djokovic said that he had overcome the physical problems which have blighted this part of his season. "It's all good. There are always some things here and there that bother you at this level," he added. "It's normal. When you're not 20-25 anymore you experience that a bit more than what used to be the case. "I feel good... Historically throughout my career Rome has been a very nice tournament for me, I had success in it many times, got to finals. "It's my most successful clay court event. Coming into the French Open it can be a great springboard for what's coming up in Paris where I want to be at my best." While Djokovic plots a seventh title in Rome, women's world number two Aryna Sabalenka's hopes of a maiden crown in the Italian capital were crushed. The Australian Open champion, fresh from a clay court title in Madrid last weekend, lost 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 to US world number 134 Sofia Kenin. Kenin's victory was her first against a top-10 rival since shocking world number one Ashleigh Barty on her way to her surprise Australian Open title three years ago. Sabalenka had not been defeated before the quarter-finals of any event this year and came into Rome as the match-win leader in 2023 with 29 match wins. "Obviously super happy, I played really well," former world number four Kenin said. "Of course she's had some great results, great year, so of course going into the match there's not much pressure on my side."

Italian Open: 'Carlos Alcaraz is the man to beat...,' says top-seed Novak Djokovic

World number one Novak Djokovic will be able to compete at the US&nbsp;Open this year after the US&nbsp;government said on Monday it will end its COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travellers on May 11.

Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, missed the US&nbsp;Open in 2022 due to his vaccination&nbsp;status. The 35-year-old Serb was unable to enter the country this year after unsuccessfully applying to the US&nbsp;government for special permission to play at Indian Wells and Miami. Djokovic missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccination&nbsp;status and has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID-19 shot.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-stephen-curry-50-points-watch-warriors-vs-kings-game-7-recap-result-and-score-587825">NBA Playoffs 2023: Stephen Curry drop playoff career-high 50 points in Warriors vs Kings Game 7 - WATCH</a>

Djokovic has won three of his 22 major titles at the US&nbsp;Open. The hardcourt Grand Slam will be held from Aug&nbsp;28-Sept&nbsp;10 this year.

World number one Novak Djokovic will be able to compete at the US Open this year after the US government said on Monday it will end its COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travellers on May 11.

World number one Novak Djokovic will be able to compete at the US Open this year after the US government said on Monday it will end its COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travellers on May 11. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, missed the US Open in 2022 due to his vaccination status. The 35-year-old Serb was unable to enter the country this year after unsuccessfully applying to the US government for special permission to play at Indian Wells and Miami. Djokovic missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccination status and has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID-19 shot. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: Stephen Curry drop playoff career-high 50 points in Warriors vs Kings Game 7 - WATCH Djokovic has won three of his 22 major titles at the US Open. The hardcourt Grand Slam will be held from Aug 28-Sept 10 this year.

Tennis: World number one Novak Djokovic able to play at US Open as vaccine mandate set to end

World number one Novak Djokovic slumped to a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) defeat by Dusan Lajovic in the Banja Luka quarter-finals on Friday, raising further concerns over his form ahead of next month's French Open.

Djokovic had dropped just four games against the 70th-ranked Lajovic across two previous meetings but was punished for failing to convert three set points in the second-set tie-break.

Lajovic saved 15 of 16 break points overall and won the final five points of the match to condemn Djokovic to another premature exit following his loss in the last 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters.

"I'm overwhelmed," said 32-year-old Lajovic. "It's the biggest win of my career. Beating him is something I didn't even think was possible, but it happened."

As in his opening match, Djokovic started slowly and fell 4-2 behind before finally capitalising on a break point in the eighth game to draw level.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion alluded earlier in the week to the elbow problems which hampered him in Monte Carlo, and Lajovic took advantage of his struggles to break again for a 5-4 lead.

Djokovic had three chances to break back the next game before Lajovic wrapped up the opening set. &nbsp;

Both players held serve throughout the second set despite constant pressure, with Djokovic wriggling out of trouble down 0-40 at four games apiece.

The top seed looked set to force a third set when he surged 6-3 ahead in the tie-break, but dumped a routine overhead into the net to offer Lajovic a match point he duly took.

Lajovic, whose lone ATP title came on clay in Umag in 2019, will take on Miomir Kecmanovic&nbsp;or&nbsp;Jiri Lehecka&nbsp;in the last four on Saturday.

Andrey Rublev secured his place in the semi-finals after recovering from a poor start to beat Bosnian wild card Damir Dzumhur 7-5, 6-3.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-there-cannot-be-a-bigger-cricketer-than-ms-dhoni-in-india-says-harbhajan-singh-584745">IPL 2023: There cannot be a bigger cricketer than MS Dhoni in India, says Harbhajan Singh</a>

Rublev, who won his first Masters title in Monte Carlo last week, trailed the 202nd-ranked Dzumhur 5-2 in the opening set before saving a set point and winning five games on the bounce.

The second seed was again under pressure as he fought off four break points early in the second set, but steadied himself once more and grabbed the key break in the fifth game.

"We've always had tough battles and today was the same. I was lucky I was able to come back," said Rublev, now unbeaten in five matches against Dzumhur.

Rublev's reward for extending his winning run to seven matches is a semi-final against Slovakia's Alex Molcan, the world number 73 who beat Laslo Djere of Serbia in three sets.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number one Novak Djokovic slumped to a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) defeat by Dusan Lajovic in the Banja Luka quarter-finals on Friday, raising further concerns over his form ahead of next month's French Open.

World number one Novak Djokovic slumped to a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) defeat by Dusan Lajovic in the Banja Luka quarter-finals on Friday, raising further concerns over his form ahead of next month's French Open. Djokovic had dropped just four games against the 70th-ranked Lajovic across two previous meetings but was punished for failing to convert three set points in the second-set tie-break. Lajovic saved 15 of 16 break points overall and won the final five points of the match to condemn Djokovic to another premature exit following his loss in the last 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters. "I'm overwhelmed," said 32-year-old Lajovic. "It's the biggest win of my career. Beating him is something I didn't even think was possible, but it happened." As in his opening match, Djokovic started slowly and fell 4-2 behind before finally capitalising on a break point in the eighth game to draw level. The 22-time Grand Slam champion alluded earlier in the week to the elbow problems which hampered him in Monte Carlo, and Lajovic took advantage of his struggles to break again for a 5-4 lead. Djokovic had three chances to break back the next game before Lajovic wrapped up the opening set. Both players held serve throughout the second set despite constant pressure, with Djokovic wriggling out of trouble down 0-40 at four games apiece. The top seed looked set to force a third set when he surged 6-3 ahead in the tie-break, but dumped a routine overhead into the net to offer Lajovic a match point he duly took. Lajovic, whose lone ATP title came on clay in Umag in 2019, will take on Miomir Kecmanovic or Jiri Lehecka in the last four on Saturday. Andrey Rublev secured his place in the semi-finals after recovering from a poor start to beat Bosnian wild card Damir Dzumhur 7-5, 6-3. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: There cannot be a bigger cricketer than MS Dhoni in India, says Harbhajan Singh Rublev, who won his first Masters title in Monte Carlo last week, trailed the 202nd-ranked Dzumhur 5-2 in the opening set before saving a set point and winning five games on the bounce. The second seed was again under pressure as he fought off four break points early in the second set, but steadied himself once more and grabbed the key break in the fifth game. "We've always had tough battles and today was the same. I was lucky I was able to come back," said Rublev, now unbeaten in five matches against Dzumhur. Rublev's reward for extending his winning run to seven matches is a semi-final against Slovakia's Alex Molcan, the world number 73 who beat Laslo Djere of Serbia in three sets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World No 1 Novak Djokovic stunned by Dusan Lajovic in Banja Luka quarters

Novak Djokovic battled back from a set down to beat French teenager Luca Van Assche 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 in his opening match in Banja Luka on Wednesday.

The world number one&nbsp;squandered three set points in the opener before Van Assche took the tie-break, but Djokovic broke twice in the second set to force a deciding set.

He dropped serve right away to start the third set but then broke Van Assche twice in a row, with Djokovic grasping control to eventually put away his 18-year-old opponent. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't easy. This probably will rank as the slowest court and slowest conditions I've ever played in. I didn't expect this to be so slow," said Djokovic.

"I couldn't put any ball past him. He was on every single ball for a set and a half until I started to get some rhythm going and some tempo."

He added: "I'm happy with the way I finished the match. Of course I can always play better but a win is a win."

Former French Open junior champion Van Assche, the youngest player in the world's top 100 at number 87, had served Djokovic ample warning of his potential by beating Stan Wawrinka in round one.

Djokovic said Monday his elbow was not in "ideal condition" following a third-round exit last week at the Monte Carlo Masters, during which he was broken eight times by Lorenzo Musetti.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-bats-other-equipment-stolen-from-delhi-capitals-players-kits-583936">IPL 2023: SHOCKING! Bats, other equipment stolen from Delhi Capitals players' kits</a>

Van Assche earned the first break of the match for a 5-4 lead but failed to serve out for the set. He then saved three set points at 5-6 before eventually taking a surprise lead.

For the second set Djokovic disposed of the black compression sleeve on his right arm he also wore in Monaco, sweeping through without offering Van Assche a single break opportunity.

Despite falling behind to begin the third set, Djokovic recovered swiftly and sealed victory after two hours and 38 minutes.

The Serb, who is bidding for a record 23rd men's Grand Slam title at the French Open next month, will play countryman Dusan Lajovic or Gregoire Barrere of France in the quarter-finals.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic battled back from a set down to beat French teenager Luca Van Assche 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 in his opening match in Banja Luka on Wednesday. The world number one squandered three set points in the opener before Van Assche took the tie-break, but Djokovic broke twice in the second set to force a deciding set.

Novak Djokovic battled back from a set down to beat French teenager Luca Van Assche 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 in his opening match in Banja Luka on Wednesday. The world number one squandered three set points in the opener before Van Assche took the tie-break, but Djokovic broke twice in the second set to force a deciding set. He dropped serve right away to start the third set but then broke Van Assche twice in a row, with Djokovic grasping control to eventually put away his 18-year-old opponent. "It wasn't easy. This probably will rank as the slowest court and slowest conditions I've ever played in. I didn't expect this to be so slow," said Djokovic. "I couldn't put any ball past him. He was on every single ball for a set and a half until I started to get some rhythm going and some tempo." He added: "I'm happy with the way I finished the match. Of course I can always play better but a win is a win." Former French Open junior champion Van Assche, the youngest player in the world's top 100 at number 87, had served Djokovic ample warning of his potential by beating Stan Wawrinka in round one. Djokovic said Monday his elbow was not in "ideal condition" following a third-round exit last week at the Monte Carlo Masters, during which he was broken eight times by Lorenzo Musetti. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: SHOCKING! Bats, other equipment stolen from Delhi Capitals players' kits Van Assche earned the first break of the match for a 5-4 lead but failed to serve out for the set. He then saved three set points at 5-6 before eventually taking a surprise lead. For the second set Djokovic disposed of the black compression sleeve on his right arm he also wore in Monaco, sweeping through without offering Van Assche a single break opportunity. Despite falling behind to begin the third set, Djokovic recovered swiftly and sealed victory after two hours and 38 minutes. The Serb, who is bidding for a record 23rd men's Grand Slam title at the French Open next month, will play countryman Dusan Lajovic or Gregoire Barrere of France in the quarter-finals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Novak Djokovic prevails in three sets in Banja Luka, beats French teenager Luca Van Assche in opening round

Novak Djokovic says he is still dealing with an elbow issue heading into this week's Srpska Open as the Serb looks to get his French Open preparations back on track following his early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic suffered a third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, the 22-times Grand Slam champion's serve broken eight times by the Italian.

"My elbow is not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match," Djokovic told reporters. "One of the good things in&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;is that you get new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward. I've turned over a new leaf. "Naturally, I wasn't satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I've felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-basketball-association-disqualifies-two-teams-over-fixing-suspicions-583320">Chinese Basketball Association disqualifies two teams over fixing suspicions</a>

Djokovic will face 18-year-old Luca Van Assche in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday after the Frenchman claimed a 1-6 7-6(4) 6-4 victory over three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka. "I don't know much about the young French player," Djokovic said. "I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it's difficult to get past him. No one should be underestimated."

Van Assche, ranked 87th in the world, said it was a privilege to play against Djokovic. "Novak is a true champion. Not only in&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;but in sports in general," he added. "It will be an incredible match. I know I'll have to give my all to win." The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, begins on May 28.

Novak Djokovic says he is still dealing with an elbow issue heading into this week's Srpska Open as the Serb looks to get his French Open preparations back on track following his early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters.

Novak Djokovic says he is still dealing with an elbow issue heading into this week's Srpska Open as the Serb looks to get his French Open preparations back on track following his early exit at the Monte Carlo Masters. Djokovic suffered a third-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti in Monte Carlo last week, the 22-times Grand Slam champion's serve broken eight times by the Italian. "My elbow is not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match," Djokovic told reporters. "One of the good things in tennis is that you get new opportunity to prove your worth every week and take a step forward. I've turned over a new leaf. "Naturally, I wasn't satisfied with the result in Monte Carlo. But, ever since I landed, I've felt welcomed in Banja Luka, a lot of positive energy and positive emotions." Also read: Chinese Basketball Association disqualifies two teams over fixing suspicions Djokovic will face 18-year-old Luca Van Assche in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday after the Frenchman claimed a 1-6 7-6(4) 6-4 victory over three-times Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka. "I don't know much about the young French player," Djokovic said. "I thought Wawrinka would win the match. I saw (Van Assche) play but not for long, he is a real fighter, fast, it's difficult to get past him. No one should be underestimated." Van Assche, ranked 87th in the world, said it was a privilege to play against Djokovic. "Novak is a true champion. Not only in tennis but in sports in general," he added. "It will be an incredible match. I know I'll have to give my all to win." The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the season, begins on May 28.

World number one Novak Djokovic's elbow not in 'ideal shape' ahead of French Open

Novak Djokovic was knocked out in the last 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters by Lorenzo Musetti in three sets on Thursday after the world number one struggled badly on serve.

Djokovic, a two-time winner in the Principality in 2013 and 2015, was broken eight times before going down 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 to the 21st-ranked Musetti on a wet and chilly day on the Cote d'Azur.

"(The) feeling is terrible after playing like this, honestly. But congrats to him. He stayed tough in important moments, and that's it," said Djokovic.

The Serb led by a set and a break against Musetti, but the Italian youngster fought back in a scrappy second set and then prevailed in the decider after rain interrupted the match for an hour.

Musetti advances to a quarter-final meeting with compatriot Jannik Sinner, who saved a match point before beating Poland's Hubert Hurkacz 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 6-1.

Djokovic, the big favourite in the absence of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, surged 5-2 ahead in the opening set. He dropped serve as he tried to close it out before breaking Musetti for a third time.

The top seed again looked in control at 4-2 in the second but was broken easily in a game that started with Djokovic justifiably unhappy over a line call that went against him.

Musetti won the next three games, successfully serving for the second set at the second attempt after blowing his chance while leading 5-4.

A rain shower early in the deciding set forced play to be suspended, with Musetti landing the decisive break to go 5-3 up and eventually sealing victory on his fourth match point.

"I am struggling not to cry because it is a dream for me," said Musetti, who led Djokovic by two sets at Roland Garros in 2021 before having to retire.

"Beating Novak is something remarkable for me."

Djokovic, holder of a record 38 Masters titles, has not gone beyond the last eight in Monte Carlo since 2015.

"I don't think it's catastrophic, but my feeling is bad right now because I lost the match. That's all," said Djokovic.

"It's not a great day for me, so I'm not really in the mood to speak."

<h2>Ruud awakening</h2>

French Open finalist Casper Ruud also bowed out after suffering a 6-1, 7-6 (8/6) defeat to German Jan-Lennard Struff, who has beaten the Norwegian on all three occasions they have met.

The 100th-ranked Struff -- who came through the qualifiers -- will play Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals after the Russian beat his compatriot Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7/4), 6-2.

Ruud was on a run of nine successive victories on clay -- having won in Gstaad last July and then Estoril on Sunday -- but he looked out of sorts in Monaco.

The world number four, who also reached the US Open final last year, saved two match points and fought back from 5-2 down to lead 6-5 in the second set only for Struff to level.

The German then took a hard-fought tie-break when Ruud sent a return out.

The in-form Daniil Medvedev saved two match points in a final-set tie-break to outlast Alexander Zverev 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (9/7) under the lights.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-r-ashwin-fined-25-percent-of-match-fees-after-rrs-narrow-win-over-csk-heres-why-582153">IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why</a>

Zverev served for the match in the second set and again in the third before Medvedev once more wriggled out of trouble in the tie-break to record his 26th win in 27 matches.

"If he'd been right mentally he could have finished the match twice," said Medvedev.

His next opponent is Denmark's ninth-ranked Holger Rune, who moved into the last eight after Matteo Berrettini withdrew due to a muscular problem the Italian suffered during his previous match.

Two-time defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas breezed through his third-round match, the Greek swatting aside Chile's Nicolas Jarry 6-3, 6-4.

Tsitsipas goes on to face Taylor Fritz after the American eighth seed defeated Jiri Lehecka of the Czech Republic in three sets.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic was knocked out in the last 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters by Lorenzo Musetti in three sets on Thursday after the world number one struggled badly on serve.

Novak Djokovic was knocked out in the last 16 of the Monte Carlo Masters by Lorenzo Musetti in three sets on Thursday after the world number one struggled badly on serve. Djokovic, a two-time winner in the Principality in 2013 and 2015, was broken eight times before going down 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 to the 21st-ranked Musetti on a wet and chilly day on the Cote d'Azur. "(The) feeling is terrible after playing like this, honestly. But congrats to him. He stayed tough in important moments, and that's it," said Djokovic. The Serb led by a set and a break against Musetti, but the Italian youngster fought back in a scrappy second set and then prevailed in the decider after rain interrupted the match for an hour. Musetti advances to a quarter-final meeting with compatriot Jannik Sinner, who saved a match point before beating Poland's Hubert Hurkacz 3-6, 7-6 (8/6), 6-1. Djokovic, the big favourite in the absence of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, surged 5-2 ahead in the opening set. He dropped serve as he tried to close it out before breaking Musetti for a third time. The top seed again looked in control at 4-2 in the second but was broken easily in a game that started with Djokovic justifiably unhappy over a line call that went against him. Musetti won the next three games, successfully serving for the second set at the second attempt after blowing his chance while leading 5-4. A rain shower early in the deciding set forced play to be suspended, with Musetti landing the decisive break to go 5-3 up and eventually sealing victory on his fourth match point. "I am struggling not to cry because it is a dream for me," said Musetti, who led Djokovic by two sets at Roland Garros in 2021 before having to retire. "Beating Novak is something remarkable for me." Djokovic, holder of a record 38 Masters titles, has not gone beyond the last eight in Monte Carlo since 2015. "I don't think it's catastrophic, but my feeling is bad right now because I lost the match. That's all," said Djokovic. "It's not a great day for me, so I'm not really in the mood to speak." Ruud awakening French Open finalist Casper Ruud also bowed out after suffering a 6-1, 7-6 (8/6) defeat to German Jan-Lennard Struff, who has beaten the Norwegian on all three occasions they have met. The 100th-ranked Struff -- who came through the qualifiers -- will play Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals after the Russian beat his compatriot Karen Khachanov 7-6 (7/4), 6-2. Ruud was on a run of nine successive victories on clay -- having won in Gstaad last July and then Estoril on Sunday -- but he looked out of sorts in Monaco. The world number four, who also reached the US Open final last year, saved two match points and fought back from 5-2 down to lead 6-5 in the second set only for Struff to level. The German then took a hard-fought tie-break when Ruud sent a return out. The in-form Daniil Medvedev saved two match points in a final-set tie-break to outlast Alexander Zverev 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (9/7) under the lights. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why Zverev served for the match in the second set and again in the third before Medvedev once more wriggled out of trouble in the tie-break to record his 26th win in 27 matches. "If he'd been right mentally he could have finished the match twice," said Medvedev. His next opponent is Denmark's ninth-ranked Holger Rune, who moved into the last eight after Matteo Berrettini withdrew due to a muscular problem the Italian suffered during his previous match. Two-time defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas breezed through his third-round match, the Greek swatting aside Chile's Nicolas Jarry 6-3, 6-4. Tsitsipas goes on to face Taylor Fritz after the American eighth seed defeated Jiri Lehecka of the Czech Republic in three sets. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Monte Carlo Masters: World No 1 Novak Djokovic crashes out against Lorenzo Musetti in three-set thriller

Novak Djokovic bowed out of the Monte Carlo Masters with a shocking defeat at the hands of&nbsp;Lorenzo Musetti in three sets in the second round. The world number one, who is preparing hard on clay ahead of the French Open, succumbed to a rare defeat after taking the early honours. The Serbian won the opening set, 6-4, to eventually lose the battle to the Italian 6-4, 5-7, 4-6. During the match, nothing clicked for Djokovic who struggled with his movement and serve and was just not up to the mark.&nbsp;

During the encounter, Djokovic got involved in an argument with the chair umpire and lost his cool to break his racquet.&nbsp;While chair umpire Aurelie Tourte claimed that the ball had touched the line just a bit, the Serbian believed the contrary. The duo were caught in an animated discussion for long as the crowd became restless and even booed Djokovic. It is to be noted that Djokovic was right but he couldn't convince the chair umpire. Post the two's lengthy discussion, the 35-year-old smashed his racquet which received a huge bent. Here's the video:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Novak Djokovic couldn't believe his eyes on this call 👀 
 
(via <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisTV</a>) <a href="https://t.co/PUeGDefAC3">pic.twitter.com/PUeGDefAC3</a>
— Eurosport (@eurosport) <a href="https://twitter.com/eurosport/status/1646543733100367876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Emotions running HIGH rn<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolexMonteCarloMasters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolexMonteCarloMasters</a> <a href="https://t.co/niiCvGsMka">pic.twitter.com/niiCvGsMka</a>
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV/status/1646543227821113344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monte-carlo-masters-world-no-1-novak-djokovic-crashes-out-against-lorenzo-musetti-in-three-set-thriller-582304">Monte Carlo Masters: World No 1 Novak Djokovic crashes out against Lorenzo Musetti in three-set thriller</a>

After the match, Djokovic stated, "I don't think it's catastrophic, but my feeling is bad right now because I lost the match. That's all. It's not a great day for me, so I'm not really in the mood to speak."

Meanwhile, it was a big moment for Musetti to get past the world number one player. He was over the moon and very emotional post the memorable victory. He said, "I am struggling not to cry because it is a dream for me," said Musetti, who led Djokovic by two sets at Roland Garros in 2021 before having to retire.Beating Novak is something remarkable for me."

&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic bowed out of the Monte Carlo Masters with a shocking defeat at the hands of Lorenzo Musetti in three sets in the second round. The world number one, who is preparing hard on clay ahead of the French Open, succumbed to a rare defeat after taking the early honours.

Novak Djokovic bowed out of the Monte Carlo Masters with a shocking defeat at the hands of Lorenzo Musetti in three sets in the second round. The world number one, who is preparing hard on clay ahead of the French Open, succumbed to a rare defeat after taking the early honours. The Serbian won the opening set, 6-4, to eventually lose the battle to the Italian 6-4, 5-7, 4-6. During the match, nothing clicked for Djokovic who struggled with his movement and serve and was just not up to the mark. During the encounter, Djokovic got involved in an argument with the chair umpire and lost his cool to break his racquet. While chair umpire Aurelie Tourte claimed that the ball had touched the line just a bit, the Serbian believed the contrary. The duo were caught in an animated discussion for long as the crowd became restless and even booed Djokovic. It is to be noted that Djokovic was right but he couldn't convince the chair umpire. Post the two's lengthy discussion, the 35-year-old smashed his racquet which received a huge bent. Here's the video: Novak Djokovic couldn't believe his eyes on this call 👀 (via @TennisTV) pic.twitter.com/PUeGDefAC3 — Eurosport (@eurosport) April 13, 2023 × Emotions running HIGH rn#RolexMonteCarloMasters pic.twitter.com/niiCvGsMka — Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 13, 2023 × Also Read: Monte Carlo Masters: World No 1 Novak Djokovic crashes out against Lorenzo Musetti in three-set thriller After the match, Djokovic stated, "I don't think it's catastrophic, but my feeling is bad right now because I lost the match. That's all. It's not a great day for me, so I'm not really in the mood to speak." Meanwhile, it was a big moment for Musetti to get past the world number one player. He was over the moon and very emotional post the memorable victory. He said, "I am struggling not to cry because it is a dream for me," said Musetti, who led Djokovic by two sets at Roland Garros in 2021 before having to retire.Beating Novak is something remarkable for me."

WATCH: Djokovic argues with umpire, breaks racquet in anger during Monte Carlo Masters exit

Novak Djokovic returned to the ATP Tour with an "ugly" straight-sets win over Ivan Gakhov at Monte Carlo and while the world number one has had extended preparation on clay this year he said he needs more time to adapt to the surface. Djokovic, who is not vaccinated against COVID-19, was unable to play at Indian Wells and Miami last month as he failed to obtain a waiver to enter the United States.

He spent the time training on clay ahead of the French Open, where he will target a 23rd Grand Slam, but the Serbian's 7-6(5) 6-2 win over Russian qualifier Gakhov on Tuesday showed he needs more time to get into a rhythm. "Throughout my career I needed one, two weeks of tournaments to really start to play the way I want to. It's the case again this year, though I trained for three weeks and felt good playing practice points," Djokovic told reporters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monte-carlo-masters-djokovic-recovers-after-shaky-start-beats-russian-qualifier-ivan-gakhov-in-second-round-581452">Monte Carlo Masters: Djokovic recovers after shaky start, beats Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov in second round</a>

"But it's different when you play a match, especially today (Tuesday) was quite windy on the court, so not easy to find the rhythm, to have the ball right, the ball toss and playing a lefty, playing someone that has not much to lose. "All these things play a factor in the way you feel on the court. I'm really glad I overcome the first step, because I hope things will be better and easier from this point."

The Australian Open champion said the level of his&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;was "not very high" at the moment and he was not sure when it would pick up. "The good feelings might come as soon as the next match or later," added Djokovic, who plays Lorenzo Musetti or Luca Nardi in the third round. "I don't know. We'll keep working on practice courts and see what happens."

Novak Djokovic returned to the ATP Tour with an "ugly" straight-sets win over Ivan Gakhov at Monte Carlo and while the world number one has had extended preparation on clay this year he said he needs more time to adapt to the surface.

Novak Djokovic returned to the ATP Tour with an "ugly" straight-sets win over Ivan Gakhov at Monte Carlo and while the world number one has had extended preparation on clay this year he said he needs more time to adapt to the surface. Djokovic, who is not vaccinated against COVID-19, was unable to play at Indian Wells and Miami last month as he failed to obtain a waiver to enter the United States. He spent the time training on clay ahead of the French Open, where he will target a 23rd Grand Slam, but the Serbian's 7-6(5) 6-2 win over Russian qualifier Gakhov on Tuesday showed he needs more time to get into a rhythm. "Throughout my career I needed one, two weeks of tournaments to really start to play the way I want to. It's the case again this year, though I trained for three weeks and felt good playing practice points," Djokovic told reporters. Also Read: Monte Carlo Masters: Djokovic recovers after shaky start, beats Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov in second round "But it's different when you play a match, especially today (Tuesday) was quite windy on the court, so not easy to find the rhythm, to have the ball right, the ball toss and playing a lefty, playing someone that has not much to lose. "All these things play a factor in the way you feel on the court. I'm really glad I overcome the first step, because I hope things will be better and easier from this point." The Australian Open champion said the level of his tennis was "not very high" at the moment and he was not sure when it would pick up. "The good feelings might come as soon as the next match or later," added Djokovic, who plays Lorenzo Musetti or Luca Nardi in the third round. "I don't know. We'll keep working on practice courts and see what happens."

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic needs time to adapt after 'ugly' start on clay ahead of French Open

Novak Djokovic briefly ran into a spot of bother as he fought his way into the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters with a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory against Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov on Tuesday (April 11).

The world number one, who had not played since early March when he reached the final in Dubai after being forced to skip Indian Wells and Miami because of his COVID unvaccinated status, struggled to find his range on the Monte Carlo clay before prevailing on a sunlit centre court.

Gakhov went for his shots and claimed the first service break to lead 4-3, only for the Serbian to break right back and take the opening set by winning the tiebreak 7-5.

Djokovic was then business-like in the second set, leaving no chance of a comeback for his opponent, who suddenly felt the court was too big for him.

The double French Open champion, who suffered an opening-round exit here last year, will next face Lorenzo Musetti.

German Alexander Zverev, who suffered a serious ankle injury in his French Open semi-final clash against Rafael Nadal, was back on the claycourts with a 3-6 6-2 6-4 first-round win against Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik.

Spain's Nadal, who triumphed a record 11 times at the Monte Carlo Country Club, is absent after failing to recover from a hip injury that has kept him away from the courts since the Australian Open.

His compatriot Carlos Alcaraz is also missing the tournament with hand and back problems.

Later on Tuesday, second seed Stefanos Tstitsipas will take on Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi.

Novak Djokovic briefly ran into a spot of bother as he fought his way into the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters with a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory against Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov on Tuesday (April 11).

Novak Djokovic briefly ran into a spot of bother as he fought his way into the third round of the Monte Carlo Masters with a 7-6(5) 6-2 victory against Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov on Tuesday (April 11). The world number one, who had not played since early March when he reached the final in Dubai after being forced to skip Indian Wells and Miami because of his COVID unvaccinated status, struggled to find his range on the Monte Carlo clay before prevailing on a sunlit centre court. Gakhov went for his shots and claimed the first service break to lead 4-3, only for the Serbian to break right back and take the opening set by winning the tiebreak 7-5. Djokovic was then business-like in the second set, leaving no chance of a comeback for his opponent, who suddenly felt the court was too big for him. The double French Open champion, who suffered an opening-round exit here last year, will next face Lorenzo Musetti. German Alexander Zverev, who suffered a serious ankle injury in his French Open semi-final clash against Rafael Nadal, was back on the claycourts with a 3-6 6-2 6-4 first-round win against Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik. Spain's Nadal, who triumphed a record 11 times at the Monte Carlo Country Club, is absent after failing to recover from a hip injury that has kept him away from the courts since the Australian Open. His compatriot Carlos Alcaraz is also missing the tournament with hand and back problems. Later on Tuesday, second seed Stefanos Tstitsipas will take on Frenchman Benjamin Bonzi.

Monte Carlo Masters: Djokovic recovers after shaky start, beats Russian qualifier Ivan Gakhov in second round

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;returned to number one spot in ATP rankings published Monday despite missing US tournaments last month because of his lack of a Covid vaccination.

Carlos Alcaraz had taken the top ranking from&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;after victory in Indian Wells, but the Spaniard bowed out of the semi-finals of the Miami Open on Friday to allow the Serb back for a record 380th week as No.1.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-grand-prix-fan-left-bleeding-after-hit-by-car-debris-578633">Australian Grand Prix: Fan left bleeding after hit by car debris</a>

Djokovic&nbsp;has a 380-point lead over Alcaraz, with Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in third, more than 1,000pts behind the leading duo.

ATP rankings as of April 3

1. Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;(SRB) 7,160 pts (+1)

2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780 (-1)

3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,770

4. Daniil Medvedev 5,150 (+1)

5. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,005 (-1)

6. Andrey Rublev 3,470 (+1)

7. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,450 (-1)

8. Holger Rune (DEN) 3,370

9. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 3,345 (+2)

10. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,065

11. Karen Khachanov 2,855 (+5)

12. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2,750 (-3)

13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,735 (-1)

14. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 2,715 (-1)

15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,665 (-1)

16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,410 (-1)

17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,185

18. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,090 (+1)

19. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,050 (-1)

20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,890

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic returned to number one spot in ATP rankings published Monday despite missing US tournaments last month because of his lack of a Covid vaccination.

Novak Djokovic returned to number one spot in ATP rankings published Monday despite missing US tournaments last month because of his lack of a Covid vaccination. Carlos Alcaraz had taken the top ranking from Djokovic after victory in Indian Wells, but the Spaniard bowed out of the semi-finals of the Miami Open on Friday to allow the Serb back for a record 380th week as No.1. Also Read: Australian Grand Prix: Fan left bleeding after hit by car debris Djokovic has a 380-point lead over Alcaraz, with Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in third, more than 1,000pts behind the leading duo. ATP rankings as of April 3 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,160 pts (+1) 2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780 (-1) 3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,770 4. Daniil Medvedev 5,150 (+1) 5. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,005 (-1) 6. Andrey Rublev 3,470 (+1) 7. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,450 (-1) 8. Holger Rune (DEN) 3,370 9. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 3,345 (+2) 10. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,065 11. Karen Khachanov 2,855 (+5) 12. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2,750 (-3) 13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,735 (-1) 14. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 2,715 (-1) 15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,665 (-1) 16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,410 (-1) 17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,185 18. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,090 (+1) 19. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,050 (-1) 20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,890 WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic displaces Carlos Alcaraz to reclaim top spot in ATP rankings

Spain's Carlos&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world.

US Open champion&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

"It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1,"&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament."

Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;is the defending champion.

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indias-rohan-bopanna-creates-history-becomes-oldest-player-to-win-atp-masters-1000-573653">India's Rohan Bopanna creates history, becomes oldest player to win ATP Masters 1000</a>

Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20.

He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses.

Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions.

"Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament."

He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages.

"I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing.

"That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy."

Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him.

A stinging backhand winner gave&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead.

He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead.

He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner.

<h2>Not easy</h2>

"I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't."

Alcaraz&nbsp;has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title.

Since launching his season in February&nbsp;Alcaraz&nbsp;has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro.

But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks.

Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

"Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal.

"But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells.

"I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank.

"I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings.

Spain's Carlos Alcaraz swept past Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 6-2 on Sunday to win the Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 and secure his return to number one in the world. US Open champion Alcaraz ended Medvedev's 19-match winning streak, denying him a fourth title in as many tournaments to ensure he will supplant Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic atop the rankings. "It feels amazing to lift the trophy here, to recover the No. 1," Alcaraz said. "I would say this has been the perfect tournament." Serbia's Djokovic, barred from entering the United States because he hasn't been vaccinated against Covid-19, sat out Indian Wells and will miss the Miami Open starting this week, where Alcaraz is the defending champion. Also Read: India's Rohan Bopanna creates history, becomes oldest player to win ATP Masters 1000 Alcaraz, 19, who became the youngest world number one ever after his triumph at Flushing Meadows last year, claimed his third Masters 1000 title and joined compatriot Rafael Nadal as the only players to win at least three as a teenager. Nadal won six before turning 20. He was unstoppable on Stadium Court, breaking through what he'd called the "wall" of Medvedev's formidable defenses. Medvedev, coming off titles in Rotterdam, Doha and Dubai, could find no answer as Alcaraz fired winners from all over the court, defying the windy conditions. "Daniil obviously didn't play at his best level, but I'm very happy for my performance and how I played this tournament." He said the big change in him since a semi-final defeat to Nadal last year at Indian Wells was his comfort level on the game's biggest stages. "I think my tennis didn't improve so much since last year. What I improve a lot is to not take the pressure, just to play relaxed. That, for me, is the most important thing. "That's why I show a great level, because I feel like I have no pressure. I enjoy." Medvedev certainly wasn't able to ratchet up the pressure on him. A stinging backhand winner gave Alcaraz an early break in the opening set as he raced to a 3-0 lead. He gave himself a set point with a sharply angled forehand volley and sealed it with an unreturnable serve, then won the first 10 points of the second set on the way to a 4-0 lead. He didn't face a break point as he polished it off in one hour and 11 minutes, a diving volley winner giving him match point that he converted with another service winner. Not easy "I expected a tougher match," he said. "Against him is always a tactic match, and I did perfect today. That's why it looks easy -- but it wasn't." Alcaraz has returned to number one despite a late start to the year. Injury forced him to miss the Australian Open, where Djokovic claimed a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title. Since launching his season in February Alcaraz has won a title in Buenos Aires and reached the final in Rio de Janeiro. But to stay at the top he'll have to successfully defend his Miami title over the course of the next two weeks. Medvedev, a former world number one and US Open winner himself, was disappointed that he didn't play his best, but pleased to get past the fourth round at Indian Wells for the first time, despite twisting his ankle in a win over Alexander Zverev and cutting his thumb in another tumble against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. "Why didn't I play my best? I don't know. Maybe it was his ball. Maybe it was the wind, was pretty windy today, and for him it was easier to go through this wind, and that's normal. "But the week was amazing," added Medvedev never a fan of the slow hard courts of Indian Wells. "I had a pretty toxic relationship with the courts here," he said during the trophy ceremony as he reeled off a long list of those to thank. "I would like to thank this court. I was giving a hard time to it, so it gave me a hard time also, rolled my ankle, but it gave me the chance to finish the tournament so thanks a lot to this court." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Carlos Alcaraz beats Daniil Medvedev to win Indian Wells trophy, displaces Djokovic to reclaim no. 1 ranking

Novak Djokovic will miss next week's Miami Open after the Serbian was denied an exemption that would have allowed him to enter the U.S. despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19, tournament director James Blake said on Friday (March 17).

"We tried to get Novak Djokovic to be allowed to get an exemption, but that wasn't able to happen," Blake told Tennis Channel.

"Obviously, we're one of the premier tournaments in the world, we'd like to have the best players that can play. We did all that we could. We tried to talk to the government, but that's out of our hands."

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the state's two U.S. senators were among those calling on the Biden administration to allow world number one Djokovic to enter the U.S. and compete at the tournament he has won six times.

Djokovic, 35, is also missing the ongoing Masters event in Indian Wells, California due to inability to secure the exemption. The U.S. currently bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country, a policy that is expected to be lifted when the government ends its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-picks-a-new-face-to-keep-wickets-in-wtc-final-against-australia-573318">Ravi Shastri picks a new face to keep wickets in WTC final against Australia</a></h3>

Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open after being deported from that country due to his vaccination status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. He won his record-tying 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. He has not played at Indian Wells or the Miami Open - which together comprise the "Sunshine Double" - since 2019.

Djokovic has so far enjoyed his spell in 2023 having captured the Australia Open in January while he will be in search of third French Open title in June. The veteran star will be chasing his 23rd Grand Slam title in coming June which will see him became the most successful men’s tennis player ahead of the Rafael Nadal, who also stands with 22 titles.

While there should be no issues for him to participate in the upcoming French Open and the Wimbledon Championships, his participation in the final Slam of the year in US Open hangs in balance.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic will miss next week's Miami Open after the Serbian was denied an exemption that would have allowed him to enter the U.S. despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19, tournament director James Blake said on Friday (March 17).

Novak Djokovic will miss next week's Miami Open after the Serbian was denied an exemption that would have allowed him to enter the U.S. despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19, tournament director James Blake said on Friday (March 17). "We tried to get Novak Djokovic to be allowed to get an exemption, but that wasn't able to happen," Blake told Tennis Channel. "Obviously, we're one of the premier tournaments in the world, we'd like to have the best players that can play. We did all that we could. We tried to talk to the government, but that's out of our hands." Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the state's two U.S. senators were among those calling on the Biden administration to allow world number one Djokovic to enter the U.S. and compete at the tournament he has won six times. Djokovic, 35, is also missing the ongoing Masters event in Indian Wells, California due to inability to secure the exemption. The U.S. currently bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country, a policy that is expected to be lifted when the government ends its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11. ALSO READ | Ravi Shastri picks a new face to keep wickets in WTC final against Australia Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open after being deported from that country due to his vaccination status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. He won his record-tying 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. He has not played at Indian Wells or the Miami Open - which together comprise the "Sunshine Double" - since 2019. Djokovic has so far enjoyed his spell in 2023 having captured the Australia Open in January while he will be in search of third French Open title in June. The veteran star will be chasing his 23rd Grand Slam title in coming June which will see him became the most successful men’s tennis player ahead of the Rafael Nadal, who also stands with 22 titles. While there should be no issues for him to participate in the upcoming French Open and the Wimbledon Championships, his participation in the final Slam of the year in US Open hangs in balance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Miami Open: Novak Djokovic denied entry into US; set to miss yet another Masters event for unvaccinated status

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called on U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Novak Djokovic to compete at this month's Miami Open despite the world number one being unvaccinated for COVID-19. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against the virus, applied to the U.S. government last month for special permission to play at ATP Masters events Indian Wells, which begins on Wednesday, and the March 19-April 2 Miami Open.

The Serbian, 35, formally withdrew from Indian Wells on Sunday. Florida Senator Rick Scott said that U.S. officials had denied Djokovic's request. "This denial is unfair, unscientific and unacceptable," DeSantis wrote in a letter to Biden on Tuesday. "I urge you to reconsider. It's time to put pandemic politics aside and give the American people what they want - let him play."

Republican DeSantis signed a law in November 2021 banning schools, businesses and government entities from requiring vaccination against COVID-19, drawing condemnation from health experts and Democratic leaders. The U.S. currently bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country, a policy that is expected to be lifted when the government ends its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-ukraines-kostyuk-snubs-russias-gracheva-after-austin-open-win-dedicates-title-to-country-569450">Tennis: Ukraine's Kostyuk snubs Russia's Gracheva after Austin Open win, dedicates title to country</a>

Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open after being deported from that country due to his vaccination status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. He won his record-tying 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. He has not played at Indian Wells or the Miami Open - which together comprise the "Sunshine Double" - since 2019.

Last week, Scott and fellow Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida also wrote to Biden urging him to grant the waiver request. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas, the United States&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Association and the U.S. Open were among those also hoping Djokovic would be allowed to enter.

"The only thing keeping Mr Djokovic from participating in this tournament is your administration's continued enforcement of a misguided, unscientific, and out-of-date COVID-19 vaccination requirement for foreign guests," DeSantis said.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called on U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Novak Djokovic to compete at this month's Miami Open despite the world number one being unvaccinated for COVID-19.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called on U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Novak Djokovic to compete at this month's Miami Open despite the world number one being unvaccinated for COVID-19. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against the virus, applied to the U.S. government last month for special permission to play at ATP Masters events Indian Wells, which begins on Wednesday, and the March 19-April 2 Miami Open. The Serbian, 35, formally withdrew from Indian Wells on Sunday. Florida Senator Rick Scott said that U.S. officials had denied Djokovic's request. "This denial is unfair, unscientific and unacceptable," DeSantis wrote in a letter to Biden on Tuesday. "I urge you to reconsider. It's time to put pandemic politics aside and give the American people what they want - let him play." Republican DeSantis signed a law in November 2021 banning schools, businesses and government entities from requiring vaccination against COVID-19, drawing condemnation from health experts and Democratic leaders. The U.S. currently bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country, a policy that is expected to be lifted when the government ends its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11. Also read: Tennis: Ukraine's Kostyuk snubs Russia's Gracheva after Austin Open win, dedicates title to country Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open after being deported from that country due to his vaccination status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. He won his record-tying 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. He has not played at Indian Wells or the Miami Open - which together comprise the "Sunshine Double" - since 2019. Last week, Scott and fellow Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida also wrote to Biden urging him to grant the waiver request. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas, the United States Tennis Association and the U.S. Open were among those also hoping Djokovic would be allowed to enter. "The only thing keeping Mr Djokovic from participating in this tournament is your administration's continued enforcement of a misguided, unscientific, and out-of-date COVID-19 vaccination requirement for foreign guests," DeSantis said.

Florida governor urges US president Joe Biden to let unvaccinated Novak Djokovic compete at Miami Open

Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian.&nbsp;

Djokovic, however, stares at losing the top spot after decided to not play in the upcoming Indian Wells Master ATP event, scheduled to be played in the USA. This is also Alcaraz's&nbsp;golden chance to bridge the gap between him and Djokovic.

Second-ranked Alcaraz will take over at the ATP summit if he wins the Indian Wells Masters -- Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the event starting this week on Sunday.

The Serb is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19. A petition to US authorities for special permission to enter was rejected.

The 35-year-old winner of 22 Grand Slam titles edged ahead of Steffi Graf's all-time record last week despite losing in the Dubai semi-finals to Daniil Medvedev.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-no-1-novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-indian-wells-masters-569001">World no. 1 Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells Masters</a>

The Russian ended Djokovic's 20-match win streak and perfect start to 2023 before claiming his third title in as many weeks with defeat of compatriot Andrey Rublev in Dubai.

He moved up a place to sixth.

Here are latest ATP top 20

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,160 points

2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780

3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,805

4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,560

5. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,795

6. Daniil Medvedev 3,775 (+1)

7. Andrey Rublev 3,660 (-1)

8. Holger Rune (NOR) 3,321 (+2)

9. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3,315 (-1)

10. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,245 (-1)

11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3,110

12. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,815

13. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2,655

14. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,500

15. Karen Khachanov 2,470

16. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,395

17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,240

18. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,165 (+4)

19. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,000 (+4)

20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,905

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian.

Novak Djokovic, in latest ATP rankings released on Monday, continue to remain on number one position, extending his stay to record 379 weeks. Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, however, remains in hot pursuit of the Serbian. Djokovic, however, stares at losing the top spot after decided to not play in the upcoming Indian Wells Master ATP event, scheduled to be played in the USA. This is also Alcaraz's golden chance to bridge the gap between him and Djokovic. Second-ranked Alcaraz will take over at the ATP summit if he wins the Indian Wells Masters -- Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the event starting this week on Sunday. The Serb is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19. A petition to US authorities for special permission to enter was rejected. The 35-year-old winner of 22 Grand Slam titles edged ahead of Steffi Graf's all-time record last week despite losing in the Dubai semi-finals to Daniil Medvedev. Also Read: World no. 1 Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells Masters The Russian ended Djokovic's 20-match win streak and perfect start to 2023 before claiming his third title in as many weeks with defeat of compatriot Andrey Rublev in Dubai. He moved up a place to sixth. Here are latest ATP top 20 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,160 points 2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6,780 3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,805 4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5,560 5. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3,795 6. Daniil Medvedev 3,775 (+1) 7. Andrey Rublev 3,660 (-1) 8. Holger Rune (NOR) 3,321 (+2) 9. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3,315 (-1) 10. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3,245 (-1) 11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3,110 12. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2,815 13. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2,655 14. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2,500 15. Karen Khachanov 2,470 16. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2,395 17. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 2,240 18. Alex de Minaur (AUS) 2,165 (+4) 19. Tommy Paul (USA) 2,000 (+4) 20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1,905 (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic extends record stay as world no.1, Carlos Alcaraz remains in pursuit

World number one Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week's ATP/WTA Indian Wells Masters event, organisers confirmed on Sunday with the Serb barred from the entering the country.

Djokovic is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but he had petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter.

The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next week in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami which Djokovic is now expected to miss unless US authorities have a change of heart.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-19-nick-kyrgios-withdraws-from-indian-wells-and-miami-with-knee-issue-566673">World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue</a>

The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April.

Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open.&nbsp;

After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction.

He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title.

He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai last week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals.

Djokovic will be replaced in the field by Nikoloz Basilashvili, a brief statement said.

On Friday, both the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers voiced support for Djokovic's request to be allowed to enter the United States.

"Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the US Open wrote on its official Twitter feed.&nbsp;

"The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World number one Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week's ATP/WTA Indian Wells Masters event, organisers confirmed on Sunday with the Serb barred from the entering the country.

World number one Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week's ATP/WTA Indian Wells Masters event, organisers confirmed on Sunday with the Serb barred from the entering the country. Djokovic is unable to enter the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but he had petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter. The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next week in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami which Djokovic is now expected to miss unless US authorities have a change of heart. Also Read: World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April. Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction. He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai last week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals. Djokovic will be replaced in the field by Nikoloz Basilashvili, a brief statement said. On Friday, both the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers voiced support for Djokovic's request to be allowed to enter the United States. "Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the US Open wrote on its official Twitter feed. "The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: World no. 1 Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells Masters

Daniil&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday.

"Not over yet," scribbled the third-seeded&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;on the TV camera lens after his triumph, referring to his current 14-match winning streak amassed over the last 19 days, starting with the title in Rotterdam, followed by Doha and now Dubai.

"It's amazing because the start of the year was not perfect; in tennis, when you don't win tournaments you're always doubting no matter what happens in practice,” said&nbsp;Medvedev, who briefly dropped out of the top 10 last month before recovering in tremendous fashion.

"I was doubting a lot and now it just feels better. I'm really happy with these three weeks and I'm looking forward to the next ones."

Playing free-flowing tennis throughout the week, which earned him a coveted victory over world number one Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before ending Rublev's title defence in the final,&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;fired a total of 119 winners through five matches, including 27 in the championship decider.

"A lot of shots this tournament were landing, which were maybe not supposed to be, and that's when confidence is going sometimes, so that helps a lot," said&nbsp;Medvedev, who has now won his last four consecutive matches against top-10 opposition after losing nine in a row.

Rublev was the victor in his previous two clashes with&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;coming in, but had no answers for his compatriot on Saturday. He tried to venture up to the net, moving forward on 18 occasions, but was only successful on 12 of those approaches as&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;punished him from the back of the court.

"I think it was a very tactical match, I know that Andrey can cause a lot of troubles for everyone on tour. So for sure every time we play he tries to make me suffer, I try to make him suffer.&nbsp;

"Today I managed to be on top, but next matches could be a different story,” said&nbsp;Medvedev, who leads his childhood friend 5-2 head-to-head in tour-level meetings.

<h2>Medvedev&nbsp;starts quickly</h2>

Former world number one&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;put Rublev under pressure on serve from the start, and the No.2 seed had to come up with a courageous volley winner to fend off a first break point in the opening game. But&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;still found a way as he carved a 3-1 opening.

Rublev saved two break points to hold in game five but&nbsp;Medvedev&nbsp;still widened the gap with some exceptional returning two games later for a 5-2 advantage.

Medvedev&nbsp;confidently served out the opening set to take secure a one-set lead in 36 minutes. The 2021 US Open champion had dropped serve just twice all week and he kept that statistic intact in the final.

The 27-year-old blasted a forehand winner to break for 3-2 in the second set and he consolidated with ease as he marched towards victory shortly after.

Rublev has yet to successfully defend any of his 12 career titles but can take positives from his runner-up showing this week in Dubai.

"I had great matches, great victories, I was supposed to lose in the second round," said Rublev, who saved five consecutive match points in his encounter with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the week.

"But in the end I found a way to be alive until the final, and then Daniil destroyed me tonight.&nbsp;

"Only four games, I don't know how he's doing that, three titles in a row, it's my first final of the season, I told him I'm completely destroyed and he won three titles in a row.&nbsp;

"I think I never said this to Daniil face to face, but I have huge, huge respect for him."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Daniil Medvedev conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday.

Daniil Medvedev conquered all remaining doubts as he completed an impressive hat-trick, picking up a third title in as many weeks with a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Andrey Rublev in the Dubai final on Saturday. "Not over yet," scribbled the third-seeded Medvedev on the TV camera lens after his triumph, referring to his current 14-match winning streak amassed over the last 19 days, starting with the title in Rotterdam, followed by Doha and now Dubai. "It's amazing because the start of the year was not perfect; in tennis, when you don't win tournaments you're always doubting no matter what happens in practice,” said Medvedev, who briefly dropped out of the top 10 last month before recovering in tremendous fashion. "I was doubting a lot and now it just feels better. I'm really happy with these three weeks and I'm looking forward to the next ones." Playing free-flowing tennis throughout the week, which earned him a coveted victory over world number one Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals before ending Rublev's title defence in the final, Medvedev fired a total of 119 winners through five matches, including 27 in the championship decider. "A lot of shots this tournament were landing, which were maybe not supposed to be, and that's when confidence is going sometimes, so that helps a lot," said Medvedev, who has now won his last four consecutive matches against top-10 opposition after losing nine in a row. Rublev was the victor in his previous two clashes with Medvedev coming in, but had no answers for his compatriot on Saturday. He tried to venture up to the net, moving forward on 18 occasions, but was only successful on 12 of those approaches as Medvedev punished him from the back of the court. "I think it was a very tactical match, I know that Andrey can cause a lot of troubles for everyone on tour. So for sure every time we play he tries to make me suffer, I try to make him suffer. "Today I managed to be on top, but next matches could be a different story,” said Medvedev, who leads his childhood friend 5-2 head-to-head in tour-level meetings. Medvedev starts quickly Former world number one Medvedev put Rublev under pressure on serve from the start, and the No.2 seed had to come up with a courageous volley winner to fend off a first break point in the opening game. But Medvedev still found a way as he carved a 3-1 opening. Rublev saved two break points to hold in game five but Medvedev still widened the gap with some exceptional returning two games later for a 5-2 advantage. Medvedev confidently served out the opening set to take secure a one-set lead in 36 minutes. The 2021 US Open champion had dropped serve just twice all week and he kept that statistic intact in the final. The 27-year-old blasted a forehand winner to break for 3-2 in the second set and he consolidated with ease as he marched towards victory shortly after. Rublev has yet to successfully defend any of his 12 career titles but can take positives from his runner-up showing this week in Dubai. "I had great matches, great victories, I was supposed to lose in the second round," said Rublev, who saved five consecutive match points in his encounter with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the week. "But in the end I found a way to be alive until the final, and then Daniil destroyed me tonight. "Only four games, I don't know how he's doing that, three titles in a row, it's my first final of the season, I told him I'm completely destroyed and he won three titles in a row. "I think I never said this to Daniil face to face, but I have huge, huge respect for him." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Daniil Medvedev beats Andrey Rublev to win Dubai title

Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday.

The Serbian star is currently barred from entering the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but has petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter.

The US Open Twitter feed featured a post on Friday saying American tennis authorities hoped he would be allowed to enter.

"Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the post said. "The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami."

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daniil-medvedev-ends-novak-djokovics-purple-patch-at-dubai-tennis-championships-enters-final-568327">Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final</a>

The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next Wednesday in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami.

The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April.

Djokovic said in Dubai this week that he was still waiting to hear if the US would give him special permission to enter, telling reporters that he hoped to hear a decision before the Indian Wells draw is conducted on Monday.

"Whatever the decision is before the draw, if I'm not allowed, I'm going to pull out, of course, before the draw," the world number one said.

Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction.

He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title.

He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai this week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday.

Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday. The Serbian star is currently barred from entering the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but has petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter. The US Open Twitter feed featured a post on Friday saying American tennis authorities hoped he would be allowed to enter. "Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the post said. "The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami." Read More: Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next Wednesday in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami. The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April. Djokovic said in Dubai this week that he was still waiting to hear if the US would give him special permission to enter, telling reporters that he hoped to hear a decision before the Indian Wells draw is conducted on Monday. "Whatever the decision is before the draw, if I'm not allowed, I'm going to pull out, of course, before the draw," the world number one said. Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction. He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai this week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic gets USTA, US Open backing to enter US ATP events without vaccination

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks.

In a contest where the players put their early season win streaks on the line, it was Rotterdam and Doha champion Medvedev who drew first blood by breaking an error-prone Djokovic twice and closed out the first set with a searing forehand.

Playing in his first tournament since winning the Adelaide and Australian Open titles, Djokovic has hardly put a foot wrong barring a small scare in his opener against Tomas Machac. The 35-year-old had his moments and looked the better player after going down 2-5 in the opening set but he dropped his serve again early in the second after hitting a return long.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-novak-djokovic-pain-free-as-he-prepares-for-return-in-dubai-566475">World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai</a>

It was the opening Medvedev could have only dreamed of in his bid to claim a fifth win over Djokovic in 14 matches and the Russian pounced for a 4-2 lead after some high-octane tennis. Former U.S. Open champion Medvedev peeled away further with an ace for a crucial hold and sealed a 13th straight win in his next service game.

"When you play Novak you just have to play your best and hope he doesn't on the day because when he does... he has 22 Grand Slams so it's going to be tough and it's not certain you'll win," Medvedev said. "I'm happy I managed to play at a higher level than him... I stayed composed and I'm really happy to be in the final.

"I was feeling great before this match but feeling a little worse now. Every time you play Novak, it's physically tough. A lot of rallies. It was more humid today and he wasn't happy sweating, I wasn't happy sweating. "We always have tough battles and I'm looking forward to the next one," he added.

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks.

Daniil Medvedev handed Novak Djokovic his first defeat of the year, beating the world number one 6-4, 6-4 on Friday to reach the Dubai Tennis Championships final where he plays holder Andrey Rublev for a third title in as many weeks. In a contest where the players put their early season win streaks on the line, it was Rotterdam and Doha champion Medvedev who drew first blood by breaking an error-prone Djokovic twice and closed out the first set with a searing forehand. Playing in his first tournament since winning the Adelaide and Australian Open titles, Djokovic has hardly put a foot wrong barring a small scare in his opener against Tomas Machac. The 35-year-old had his moments and looked the better player after going down 2-5 in the opening set but he dropped his serve again early in the second after hitting a return long. ALSO READ: World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai It was the opening Medvedev could have only dreamed of in his bid to claim a fifth win over Djokovic in 14 matches and the Russian pounced for a 4-2 lead after some high-octane tennis. Former U.S. Open champion Medvedev peeled away further with an ace for a crucial hold and sealed a 13th straight win in his next service game. "When you play Novak you just have to play your best and hope he doesn't on the day because when he does... he has 22 Grand Slams so it's going to be tough and it's not certain you'll win," Medvedev said. "I'm happy I managed to play at a higher level than him... I stayed composed and I'm really happy to be in the final. "I was feeling great before this match but feeling a little worse now. Every time you play Novak, it's physically tough. A lot of rallies. It was more humid today and he wasn't happy sweating, I wasn't happy sweating. "We always have tough battles and I'm looking forward to the next one," he added.

Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final

Roger Federer won 20 grand slam titles, Rafael Nadal won 22 Grand Slam title and Novak Djokovic just won his 22nd Grand Slam title in Australia in January. Federer has retired, Nadal is constantly struggling with injuries and Djokovic is on a 20 match unbeaten run so, is this the year where he ends the goat debate?

Is this the year Novak Djokovic ends the G.O.A.T debate?

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month.

Djokovic suffered a three-centimetre hamstring tear en route to winning the Adelaide warm-up event before claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park to go level with Rafa Nadal. The 35-year-old Serb said his Dubai participation was in doubt until a few days ago but he had passed all his fitness tests.

"Had a couple of weeks of no&nbsp;tennis. The last few days it's really getting as much practice as possible to get myself back in shape to be able to compete at a high level," Djokovic said. "I haven't felt pain on the court for a week. I'm getting closer to 100%. Still not there in terms of the game and how I feel on court. But the important thing is there's no pain. I don't have a hindrance in the way I move on the court. "After every injury it takes time for mechanisms to be balanced, for adjustments to be done on court. It takes time to find that groove of moving effortlessly and not thinking about if something's going to happen. I don't have those thoughts."

Djokovic begins the Dubai tournament having entered his 378th week as world number one, surpassing Steffi Graf as the player with the most weeks at the top of the sport. "It's surreal to be that many weeks number one, to match Graf - one of the all-time greats," Djokovic said. "Just being amongst these legendary names is flattering. I'm proud of it."

Djokovic meets Czech Tomas Machac in the first round on Tuesday.

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month.

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month. Djokovic suffered a three-centimetre hamstring tear en route to winning the Adelaide warm-up event before claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park to go level with Rafa Nadal. The 35-year-old Serb said his Dubai participation was in doubt until a few days ago but he had passed all his fitness tests. "Had a couple of weeks of no tennis. The last few days it's really getting as much practice as possible to get myself back in shape to be able to compete at a high level," Djokovic said. "I haven't felt pain on the court for a week. I'm getting closer to 100%. Still not there in terms of the game and how I feel on court. But the important thing is there's no pain. I don't have a hindrance in the way I move on the court. "After every injury it takes time for mechanisms to be balanced, for adjustments to be done on court. It takes time to find that groove of moving effortlessly and not thinking about if something's going to happen. I don't have those thoughts." Djokovic begins the Dubai tournament having entered his 378th week as world number one, surpassing Steffi Graf as the player with the most weeks at the top of the sport. "It's surreal to be that many weeks number one, to match Graf - one of the all-time greats," Djokovic said. "Just being amongst these legendary names is flattering. I'm proud of it." Djokovic meets Czech Tomas Machac in the first round on Tuesday.

World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'.

"Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-to-sell-his-manchester-luxury-mansion-demands-a-whopping-amount-565585">Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount</a>

He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career."

'Alcaraz&nbsp;is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport'

Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said,&nbsp;"It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court."

Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz&nbsp;cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,”&nbsp;Djokovic concluded.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other. Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'. "Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career." 'Alcaraz is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport' Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said, "It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court." Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,” Djokovic concluded.

Rafael Nadal will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career, says Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, added he would return to the ATP tour in Dubai next week after winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam last month.

"My plans after Dubai depend on the U.S. I'm waiting for a reply, it's not on me... I will know soon," world number one Djokovic told reporters after practice in Belgrade. "Everything is in process. I'm thankful to the Indians Wells and Miami communities for their support. They would like me to be able to play in their tournaments... I'm looking forward to a positive decision coming soon, but it's not in my hands."

The U.S. vaccine requirement for foreign air travellers is not expected to be lifted before the main draw begins at Indian Wells on March 9 and the Miami Open later in the month, meaning Djokovic could miss out for a second straight year. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration said last month it would lift COVID emergency declarations on May 11, but Djokovic -- named on the Indian Wells entry list -- said he had submitted the required documentation for special permission. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said last month it would be a "disgrace" if Djokovic was not allowed to compete in the U.S. in 2023 after the Serbian also missed last year's major at Flushing Meadows.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-smith-dustin-johnson-to-feature-in-controversial-saudi-backed-liv-golf-league-564988">Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson to feature in controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf League</a>

Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccine status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. "Last year I missed Indian Wells, Miami and the U.S. Open swing so it won't be the first time if it happens (again). I hope it doesn't," Djokovic said. "That's all I can do because my position stays the same... The U.S. Open is still far away so I hope I'll be able to be there. It's one of the four biggest events in our sport's history. "Of course I'd love to be there. I've received the most wonderful support from the New York and American crowd during the 2021 final I lost to Daniil Medvedev. But I experienced something that I never did there before. "So I want to go back and connect with people and hopefully play my best&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and get another trophy there."

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, added he would return to the ATP tour in Dubai next week after winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam last month. "My plans after Dubai depend on the U.S. I'm waiting for a reply, it's not on me... I will know soon," world number one Djokovic told reporters after practice in Belgrade. "Everything is in process. I'm thankful to the Indians Wells and Miami communities for their support. They would like me to be able to play in their tournaments... I'm looking forward to a positive decision coming soon, but it's not in my hands." The U.S. vaccine requirement for foreign air travellers is not expected to be lifted before the main draw begins at Indian Wells on March 9 and the Miami Open later in the month, meaning Djokovic could miss out for a second straight year. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration said last month it would lift COVID emergency declarations on May 11, but Djokovic -- named on the Indian Wells entry list -- said he had submitted the required documentation for special permission. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said last month it would be a "disgrace" if Djokovic was not allowed to compete in the U.S. in 2023 after the Serbian also missed last year's major at Flushing Meadows. Also Read: Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson to feature in controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf League Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccine status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. "Last year I missed Indian Wells, Miami and the U.S. Open swing so it won't be the first time if it happens (again). I hope it doesn't," Djokovic said. "That's all I can do because my position stays the same... The U.S. Open is still far away so I hope I'll be able to be there. It's one of the four biggest events in our sport's history. "Of course I'd love to be there. I've received the most wonderful support from the New York and American crowd during the 2021 final I lost to Daniil Medvedev. But I experienced something that I never did there before. "So I want to go back and connect with people and hopefully play my best tennis and get another trophy there."

World number one Novak Djokovic hopes for positive news on U.S. tournaments participation

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one. Djokovic returned to number one spot for a seventh time after his victory in the Australian Open at the end of January which was a record equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. &nbsp;Two former world number ones enjoyed success at the weekend -- Daniil Medvedev claiming the Rotterdam title and Carlos Alcaraz making a winning return to the circuit in Argentina.

Medvedev's three set victory -- his 16th career title -- over Italian Jannik Sinner sees him return to the top 10 -- he rises three spots to eighth. The losing finalist's consolation is a climb of two places to 12th in the rankings.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-carlos-alcaraz-makes-a-stunning-return-after-injury-layoff-claims-argentina-open-title-563902">Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz makes a stunning return after injury layoff, claims Argentina Open title</a>

Alcaraz's successful return to the tour, after almost four months out, in landing the Argentina Open on Sunday sees him solidify his second place in the rankings.

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas -- whom Djokovic beat in the Australian Open final -- rounds off the top three.

Germany's former world number two Alexander Zverev arrested a decline in his ranking since his comeback after tearing ankle ligaments during last year's French Open which kept him out of action for the remainder of the year.

The 25-year-old, who also revealed after exiting the Australian Open in the second round he had type 1 diabetes since the age of three, rose one place to 16th after reaching the second round in Rotterdam. Here are the current rankings:

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7070 pts

2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6480

3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5940

4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5515

5. Andrey Rublev 3860

6. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3815

7. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3660

8. Daniil Medvedev 3250&nbsp;

9. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3200&nbsp;

10. Holger Rune (DEN) 3161&nbsp;

11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2995&nbsp;

12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2745&nbsp;

13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2615

14. Karen Khachanov 2470&nbsp;

15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2350

16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2320&nbsp;

17. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2285

18. Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) 1855

19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1825&nbsp;

20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1815

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one.

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one. Djokovic returned to number one spot for a seventh time after his victory in the Australian Open at the end of January which was a record equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. Two former world number ones enjoyed success at the weekend -- Daniil Medvedev claiming the Rotterdam title and Carlos Alcaraz making a winning return to the circuit in Argentina. Medvedev's three set victory -- his 16th career title -- over Italian Jannik Sinner sees him return to the top 10 -- he rises three spots to eighth. The losing finalist's consolation is a climb of two places to 12th in the rankings. Read More: Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz makes a stunning return after injury layoff, claims Argentina Open title Alcaraz's successful return to the tour, after almost four months out, in landing the Argentina Open on Sunday sees him solidify his second place in the rankings. Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas -- whom Djokovic beat in the Australian Open final -- rounds off the top three. Germany's former world number two Alexander Zverev arrested a decline in his ranking since his comeback after tearing ankle ligaments during last year's French Open which kept him out of action for the remainder of the year. The 25-year-old, who also revealed after exiting the Australian Open in the second round he had type 1 diabetes since the age of three, rose one place to 16th after reaching the second round in Rotterdam. Here are the current rankings: 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7070 pts 2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6480 3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5940 4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5515 5. Andrey Rublev 3860 6. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3815 7. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3660 8. Daniil Medvedev 3250 9. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3200 10. Holger Rune (DEN) 3161 11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2995 12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2745 13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2615 14. Karen Khachanov 2470 15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2350 16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2320 17. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2285 18. Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) 1855 19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1825 20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1815 WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic equals Steffi Graf's record for most weeks as top-ranked player

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday.

The Serbian, who suffered the hamstring injury en route to winning the warm-up title in Adelaide, won the season-opening major after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in Sunday's final for a men's record 22nd Grand Slam title, matching Rafa Nadal's haul. "This guy I did see, he had a three-centimetre tear in his hammy," Tiley told SEN Sportsday. "Absolutely (I saw the scans), the doctors are going to tell you the truth.

"There was a lot of speculation about whether it was true or not, it's hard to believe that they can do what they do with those kinds of injuries. "He's remarkable, to deal with it extremely professionally."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-in-numbers-grand-slam-career-of-oz-open-champion-who-equalled-rafael-nadals-tally-557157">Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally</a>

Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said after the final that the world number one battled the injury, which would have forced most players to quit. "He's so focused on everything he does, with every single minute of the day," Tiley added. "That's what he eats, what he drinks, when he does it, how he does it.

"There's no breakdown or mental breakdown in anything that he does. He's been through a lot and to win 10 Australian Opens, I don't think that's ever going to be repeated... He'll hold a significant place in the history of the Australian Open."

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday.

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday. The Serbian, who suffered the hamstring injury en route to winning the warm-up title in Adelaide, won the season-opening major after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in Sunday's final for a men's record 22nd Grand Slam title, matching Rafa Nadal's haul. "This guy I did see, he had a three-centimetre tear in his hammy," Tiley told SEN Sportsday. "Absolutely (I saw the scans), the doctors are going to tell you the truth. "There was a lot of speculation about whether it was true or not, it's hard to believe that they can do what they do with those kinds of injuries. "He's remarkable, to deal with it extremely professionally." Also read: Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said after the final that the world number one battled the injury, which would have forced most players to quit. "He's so focused on everything he does, with every single minute of the day," Tiley added. "That's what he eats, what he drinks, when he does it, how he does it. "There's no breakdown or mental breakdown in anything that he does. He's been through a lot and to win 10 Australian Opens, I don't think that's ever going to be repeated... He'll hold a significant place in the history of the Australian Open."

Novak Djokovic played Australian Open with 3cm tear in hamstring, reveals Craig Tiley

Setting a Grand Slam attendance record, the Australian Open 2023 saw more than 900,000 spectators flocking to Melbourne Park for the better part of the last three weeks, despite several big-ticket players missing.&nbsp;

According to figures released, 839,192 fans&nbsp;watched the opening Grand Slam of the year between January 16-29. Additionally, over 60,000 also watched the qualifiers that began before the start of the tournament, thereby bringing the total to&nbsp;902,312.

The 2023 numbers defeated the pre-Covid era record of 812,174 set in January 2020. It also eclipsed the attendance numbers of other Grand Slams from last year. While 776,120 visited the US Open, 613,500 and 515,164 visited French Open and Wimbledon respectively.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060" target="_blank">WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-sure-djokovic-on-his-injury-return-to-tennis-after-australian-open-victory-557210#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

This year's tournament also broke the single-day attendance record with 94,854 visiting on January 21, compared to 93,709 set in 2020.&nbsp;

With big players such as Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, Carlos Alcaraz, Nick Kyrgios, Venus Williams and Simona Halep amongst others not playing or having retired -&nbsp;aspersions were cast on whether the tournament organisers would be able to successfully host the Grand Slam with a decent footfall.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2023-nick-kyrgios-pulls-out-of-grand-slam-top-6-players-who-dropped-out-from-the-tournament-553052">Read more:&nbsp;Australian Open 2023: Nick Kyrgios pulls out of grand slam; top 6 players who dropped out from the tournament</a>

Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley reflected on the same and said people just wanted to be entertained.&nbsp;

"It was reported that we didn't have the greats any more, that it was going to be terrible. But people just want to be entertained,"&nbsp;Tiley told the Melbourne Age.

"They want to have some fun, and tennis is a great option for them, and it's become a summer thing to do for Melburnians and for Australians and also for our guests from around the world."

Though the Russia and Belarusian flag controversy threatened to sour the atmosphere in the stadiums, the numbers suggested that it had little to no effect.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic won his 10th Australian Open title in the men's singles category while Aryna Sabalenka won her maiden Grand Slam in the women's singles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Setting a Grand Slam attendance record, the Australian Open 2023 saw more than 900,000 spectators flocking to Melbourne Park for the better part of the last three weeks, despite several big-ticket players missing.

Setting a Grand Slam attendance record, the Australian Open 2023 saw more than 900,000 spectators flocking to Melbourne Park for the better part of the last three weeks, despite several big-ticket players missing. According to figures released, 839,192 fans watched the opening Grand Slam of the year between January 16-29. Additionally, over 60,000 also watched the qualifiers that began before the start of the tournament, thereby bringing the total to 902,312. The 2023 numbers defeated the pre-Covid era record of 812,174 set in January 2020. It also eclipsed the attendance numbers of other Grand Slams from last year. While 776,120 visited the US Open, 613,500 and 515,164 visited French Open and Wimbledon respectively. WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × This year's tournament also broke the single-day attendance record with 94,854 visiting on January 21, compared to 93,709 set in 2020. With big players such as Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, Carlos Alcaraz, Nick Kyrgios, Venus Williams and Simona Halep amongst others not playing or having retired - aspersions were cast on whether the tournament organisers would be able to successfully host the Grand Slam with a decent footfall. Read more: Australian Open 2023: Nick Kyrgios pulls out of grand slam; top 6 players who dropped out from the tournament Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley reflected on the same and said people just wanted to be entertained. "It was reported that we didn't have the greats any more, that it was going to be terrible. But people just want to be entertained," Tiley told the Melbourne Age. "They want to have some fun, and tennis is a great option for them, and it's become a summer thing to do for Melburnians and for Australians and also for our guests from around the world." Though the Russia and Belarusian flag controversy threatened to sour the atmosphere in the stadiums, the numbers suggested that it had little to no effect. Novak Djokovic won his 10th Australian Open title in the men's singles category while Aryna Sabalenka won her maiden Grand Slam in the women's singles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Record attendance reported at Australian Open, breaks Grand Slam record

Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him.&nbsp;

"We know you, we know the amount you've done. We know what you've done for PTA for example. We know what you've done with your academy, just helping out kids like the Sabanov brothers, also former players like Viktor Troicki or Ilija Bozoljac," said Devvarman.&nbsp;

"And yet somehow, some part of the world believes that - we feel you don't get the credit that you deserve. But my question to you Novak is why do you do all of this?"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-in-numbers-grand-slam-career-of-oz-open-champion-who-equalled-rafael-nadals-tally-557157#djokovic-equals-rafael-nadals-tally-of-22-grand-slams-557155" target="_blank">IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally</a>

Djokovic responded by saying he did not do the work for publicity but because wanted to help the 'less fortunate'.

"I do them because I feel I want to help, I want to be there for people who are less fortunate. I've come from Serbia in 90s where we've been through two wars, embargo for six years."

"For four years not one Serbian athlete was allowed to go out from the country to compete in international competitions."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060" target="_blank">WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he had to stand in line every day for milk and bread which used to feed the family members.&nbsp;

"And I was growing up in Serbia during that time, waiting in line for bread and milk every single morning at 5 AM with hundreds of people and my grandfather, so we could put the bread on the table for our five-six&nbsp;member family to eat that day."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣️ EXCLUSIVE: Novak Djokovic in Conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> 🏆 
 
"One of the best interviews ever" - <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> 🥹 
 
Real heartwarming facts shared by the Champion as Somdev Devvarman speaks to him after a thrilling title victory 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SlamOfTheGreats?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SlamOfTheGreats</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yli70wGyvi">pic.twitter.com/Yli70wGyvi</a>
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1619738767367245824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I know how that feels like. I think that appreciation for everything that I have, that I have been blessed with, that has been given to me by life and by God is highly appreciated and more respected by me."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-sure-djokovic-on-his-injury-return-to-tennis-after-australian-open-victory-557210">Read more:&nbsp;'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory</a>

The Serbian signed off remarking that he tried his best to be 'there for people' but it still wasn't enough.&nbsp;

Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him.

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him. "We know you, we know the amount you've done. We know what you've done for PTA for example. We know what you've done with your academy, just helping out kids like the Sabanov brothers, also former players like Viktor Troicki or Ilija Bozoljac," said Devvarman. "And yet somehow, some part of the world believes that - we feel you don't get the credit that you deserve. But my question to you Novak is why do you do all of this?" IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally Djokovic responded by saying he did not do the work for publicity but because wanted to help the 'less fortunate'. "I do them because I feel I want to help, I want to be there for people who are less fortunate. I've come from Serbia in 90s where we've been through two wars, embargo for six years." "For four years not one Serbian athlete was allowed to go out from the country to compete in international competitions." WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he had to stand in line every day for milk and bread which used to feed the family members. "And I was growing up in Serbia during that time, waiting in line for bread and milk every single morning at 5 AM with hundreds of people and my grandfather, so we could put the bread on the table for our five-six member family to eat that day." 🗣️ EXCLUSIVE: Novak Djokovic in Conversation with #SonySportsNetwork 🏆 "One of the best interviews ever" - @DjokerNole 🥹 Real heartwarming facts shared by the Champion as Somdev Devvarman speaks to him after a thrilling title victory 🔥#SlamOfTheGreats pic.twitter.com/Yli70wGyvi — Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 29, 2023 × "I know how that feels like. I think that appreciation for everything that I have, that I have been blessed with, that has been given to me by life and by God is highly appreciated and more respected by me." Read more: 'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory The Serbian signed off remarking that he tried his best to be 'there for people' but it still wasn't enough. Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Waited in line for bread and milk every day': Djokovic opens up on his rough childhood

Newly crowned champion of Australian Open Novak Djokovic is unsure about his immediate future, due to a hamstring injury. Djokovic played through pain despite the injury troubling him throughout the last two weeks of the Grand Slam.

Newly crowned champion of Australian Open Novak Djokovic is unsure about his immediate future, due to a hamstring injury. Djokovic played through pain despite the injury troubling him throughout the last two weeks of the Grand Slam. “I’m not sure, I’m going to do some medical check-ups in the next few days. Then I’ll be able to talk about it a bit more and understand the situation," Djokovic told the reporters on Monday. Djokovic, a 10-time winner at the Rod Laver Arena added that he was currently on track to appear at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, scheduled to start next month. “As it stands today I am still signed in for the Dubai tournament, which is in a month’s time. I hope I’ll be able to come back to the courts in several weeks’ time. Let’s see, you know, I’ll speak to the medical team and then take it from there." WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × Djokovic's compatriot, Rafael Nadal announced earlier this month that he was also returning to the Dubai tournament. However, after the Spaniard suffered a hip injury during his second-round exit, it is highly unlikely that he will make an appearance in the tournament. Read more: Rafael Nadal sidelined from tennis action for six-eight weeks due to injury The Serbian came into the season opener Grand Slam of the year with a hamstring niggle which turned serious during his second round match. That was the only match where Djokovic dropped a set in the tournament. Afterward, the 22-time Grand Slam winner showed tremendous grit and determination to soldier through the pain. Strapping his thighs heavily with bandages, Djokovic brushed aside his opponents and completed a thumping comeback victory. Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said Djokovic needed '77 therapies' a day to compete in the tournament. IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory

After winning a record 10th Australian Open on Sunday, Novak Djokovic reflected on his father's absence in the stadium. The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he was 'hurt' that his old man was not there to witness him emerge victorious.

After winning a record 10th Australian Open on Sunday, Novak Djokovic reflected on his father's absence in the stadium. The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he was 'hurt' that his old man was not there to witness him emerge victorious. "I thought the things will calm down in terms of media and everything, but it didn't," Djokovic told the reporters before adding, "We both agreed it would probably be better that he is not there." "That hurts me, and him, a lot because these are very special unique moments. Who knows if they will repeat again. So, it was not easy for him." Djokovic informed that he hugged his father after the match, away from the court and that he looked sad. "He was not feeling his best, let's say, even though he was very happy to hug me. I could see that he was a bit sad. Look, it is what it is. I think, in the end, what he told me is that it's important that I feel good on the court. I win the match and he's here for me," added Djokovic. WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × After Djokovic's father Srdjan Djokovic was pictured posing with a Russian flag-holding fan, Australian Open chief Craig Tiley issued a warning saying the family needed to be 'really careful' as the tournament was a platform that could be used by people for 'disruptive' purposes. "My advice is that you have to be really careful because if this is an event of global significance, it's a platform," said Tiley. After the controversy snowballed, Djokovic senior preferred to skip his son's semifinal as well as the final match. Read more: 'Be really careful...' Australian Open chief warns Djokovic and family after Russian flag controversy Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena. After winning the match, an emotional Djokovic climbed up to the player's box to embrace his family members and coaches. He celebrated with them and cried inconsolably. However, a notable absence was that of his father. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'That hurts me...': Djokovic on his father not present at the Australian Open final

Novak Djokovic won a record-extending 10th Australian Open title by crushing Stefanos Tsitsipas in a one-sided final. He has defeated Tsitsipas in straight sets and a record-equaling 22nd grand slam.

Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas

novak-djokovic

Novak Djokovic, News on Novak Djokovic, stories on Novak Djokovic, articles on Novak Djokovic, Novak Djokovic stories at Wion, Novak Djokovic news, Novak Djokovic latest news

novak djokovic