USA Today via Reuters
Sep 12, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia speaks to the crowd during the trophy presentation ceremony after his match against Daniil Medvedev of Russia (not pictured) in the men’s singles final on day fourteen of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 12, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia speaks to the crowd during the trophy presentation ceremony after his match against Daniil Medvedev of Russia (not pictured) in the men’s singles final on day fourteen of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
World No.1 Novak Djokovic has been spending time with his family in Serbia after a tough loss in the US Open 2021 final.
After the defeat in New York, it became clear that the Serb wouldn’t want to come back to the ATP tour soon. Even though there was a Masters tournament scheduled at Indian Wells in October, the chances of Djokovic playing the event were always thin.
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Novak Djokovic decides to skip the upcoming Indian Wells tournament
Confirming the same, Djokovic announced his withdrawal from Indian Wells a few minutes ago. “I am sorry I won’t get to see my fans in Indian Wells and play in the desert, my favourite place to go. I hope to see you next year!”, tweeted the Serb.
I am sorry I won’t get to see my fans in Indian Wells and play in the desert, my favourite place to go. I hope to see you next year! @BNPPARIBASOPEN
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) September 29, 2021
This decision from Djokovic will provide a golden opportunity for Medvedev to lay his hands on the BNP Paribas Open title. A successful run would see him move closer to the Serb in ranking points.
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 12, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a shot against Daniil Medvedev of Russia in the men’s singles final on day fourteen of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
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Djokovic’s heartbreak at US Open 2021
Djokovic entered the US Open facing the pressure of becoming the first male singles player to reach 21 major titles. Despite winning his first six matches comfortably, the Serb showed signs of vulnerability in the final against Daniil Medvedev.
With scores of fans rooting for Djokovic to create history, he couldn’t bring out his A-game when it was needed the most. Conversely, Medvedev took complete advantage, and played more freely from the baseline.
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 12, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; (L-R) Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Daniil Medvedev of Russia celebrate with the finalist and championship trophies, respectively, after their match in the men’s singles final on day fourteen of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
The Russian posed tough questions to Djokovic, and the latter struggled to find past his opponent. Even at two sets down, fans expected an incredible comeback from the Serb, but it was not to be.
After losing the contest, Djokovic made an emotional post-match speech as the Arthur Ashe crowd embraced him with loud cheers. With the Serbian withdrawing from Indian Wells, the race for the year-end no.1 ranking could become interesting, provided Medvedev wins as many matches as possible.
Also read: “Something Incredibly Important”: Novak Djokovic Lays Down Plans of His Foundation in Serbia
