Novak Djokovic's participation at Sydney ATP Cup raises doubts over his vaccination status

re are a lot of talks and doubts regarding Novak Djokovic's participation at upcoming Australian Open 2022 following COVID rules set by  Victorian government. However, latest reports have suggested that World No. 1 is set to take part in ATP Cup tournament ahe of Australian Open 2022. While Novak Djokovic's vaccine status is still unknown, ATP has confirmed Serbian's participation in tournament.

Novak Djokovic confirms participation in ATP Cup

According to ATP, top seed Serbia will be led by World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, with team placed in Group A. group also features Norway, Chile and Spain. Serbia were inaugural winners of  ATP Cup, defeating Spain in championship match in 2019.

If Novak Djokovic does make it for ATP Cup, major hurdle for Australian government would be to apply for an exemption for 34-year-old to enter country as he would have to undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival.

Earlier Australian Open chief Craig Tiley, while speaking to Channel Nine, h said that Novak Djokovic will receive no exemption from authorities if he does not take COVID vaccination. When Victoria Premier announced that everyone would have to be vaccinated before arriving at Melbourne Park, it included fans, staff, as well as players. 

Victoria's Premier Daniel Andrews h earlier said that unvaccinated players will not be allowed to play at Australian Open 2022 as a precautionary measure.

Novak Djokovic could miss out on Australian Open record

Novak Djokovic has won Australian Open a record nine times and has opportunity to defend his title one more time in January 2022 if he is allowed to participate. Australian Open begins at Melbourne Park on January 17, with rules being laid for players, staff and crowd.

If Djokovic opts out of Australian Open, which is first Grand Slam tournament of year, he will miss out on a chance to surpass his rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam singles titles.