Novak Djokovic’s wild popularity in Melbourne over defending champion Rafael Nadal has irked the tennis world. The Serbian ace has dominated the Australian Open, winning it a massive 8 times in the past decade. And fans have given a warm welcome to Djokovic, as he is back in Australia, after last year’s debacle. However, his popularity in Melbourne has come at the expense of Rafael Nadal, who is considered one of the greatest players of all time.
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Nadal has won the Australian Open twice in his career, but Djokovic’s dominance has overshadowed his performances in recent years. And the lack of support for the Spaniard disappointed many tennis fans on Twitter.
Fans irked by the posters of the Australian Open missing out on Rafael Nadal
The tennis world has been divided over Djokovic’s popularity in Melbourne. Some have praised him for his incredible performances on the court, while others have criticized him for his lack of humility and sportsmanship. And many times, Djokovic’s behavior on the court has also been a source of controversy. With the most recent one. Being his firm stance on vaccination. However, tennis fans took to Twitter to express their views about defending champion’s absence from the posters in Melbourne.
One angry user tweeted,” This is an absolute disrespect to Rafa, who is the reigning AO champion.” It disappointed the fan to see Nadal’s face not included in the promotional posters. And further added, “How did your marketing team get this so wrong @AustralianOpen? So disappointing! Print another version! 😤👎.”
The divide between Djokovic’s and Nadal’s popularity in Melbourne highlights the different attitudes that people have toward sportsmanship and humility. While Djokovic’s aggressive playing style and self-confidence may appeal to some, others may prefer Nadal’s more humble approach. Below are the reactions of fans who are perplexed by the posters on Twitter-
Shame on Craig Tiley, CEO of AO. He is a personal buddy of Djokovic and this smells nepotism!
Despite the criticism, Djokovic continues to be a fan favorite in Melbourne.
Rafa fans are truly hilarious and miserably pathetic. Novak is the most successful at australia open. Obviously they will promote it by his name. And only lunatics like you are obsessed with a person's vaccine stance. Most of the people don't give a fuck.
now you know how norrie fans felt during indian wells. at least your fave still has 22 slams!
In contrast, Nadal has always been known for his sportsmanship and humility.
I try to stay calm here, thinking there must be many more posters promoting AO in other places too. Perhaps the ones featuring Rafa are at better/more prominant locations. Just his photo (no words needed) is more than enough. Credit: Getty Images
I'm not surprised. This tournament is horrible. Promoting an anti-vaxxer who doesn't believe in science and lied on his visa application! Legend, my foot!
The Serb’s dominance on the court and controversial stance has led to criticism and divided opinions among the tennis community. Although Djokovic, would be playing at Melbourne, not at the other tournaments.
The Serb recently suffered a huge blow from American authorities
Djokovic is unlikely to participate in American tournaments this year due to Covid-19 immunization guidelines. He missed most of the 2022 North American swing due to the US government’s determination to abide by the country’s immunization rules. The Serb was allowed to participate in the Australian Open, but because of Covid-19’s restrictions, would probably miss the Indian Wells and Miami Open.
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This decision came as a surprise to many, as Djokovic was able to participate in the Australian Open earlier this year without any issues related to vaccinations.