The opening Grand Slam of the season ended with a fanfare, leaving behind the visa controversy of Novak Djokovic. The Serb was denied a chance to defend his Australian Open title after his visa was canceled. Subsequently, he faced deportation, after which a legal battle ensued.

However, a day before the commencement of the Australian Open, he lost the final appeal and decided to return to his hometown.

Rafael Nadal created history at the Australian Open 2022 by becoming the first man to lift 21 Grand Slam singles titles. Moreover, many hailed his come-from-behind victory over Russian Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash.

It was one of the most memorable comebacks in the tournament’s history. Further, in the women’s section, the local favorite Ashleigh Barty continued her consistent run this season to claim her first Australian Open title.

Yesterday, China celebrated its New Year. It is also known as the Lunar New Year. The festival celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar and solar Chinese calendar.

The festivities last for 16 days, starting from Chinese New Year’s Eve to the Lantern Festival. It will be known as the Year of the Tiger, as the tiger is the third sign of the Chinese Zodiac. Further, tennis stars took to social media to wish the fans on this festival.

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Emma Raducanu, Novak Djokovic, and other tennis stars wish fans on Chinese New Year’s Day

The British No. 1 had a message for the fans in Mandarin. It was shared by British Airways on their official Instagram handle since she is the brand ambassador of the airline. The message, when translated to English, read, “Hello, I want to wish all British Airways customers a Happy New Year and an auspicious Year of the Tiger!”

Novak Djokovic joined Emma Raducanu in extending his greetings on this festival. The World Number 1 took to Twitter to share his message. He said, “Xin Chun Kuai Le (Happy New Year) to everyone celebrating Lunar New Year!”

Further, Stefanos Tsitsipas, who had a good 2021 season, wished the fans in Mandarin. His message translated to ‘Get rich’, signifying prosperity for everyone in this New Year.

As the Chinese New Year unfolded yesterday, the tennis season enters its second month after an action-packed January. Further, the clay-court season commences this month. In-form Rafael Nadal would aim to continue his winning momentum on his favorite surface.

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