“It Was Sad To See Players And Ball Kids Collapsing”- Novak Djokovic

The Serbian star Novak Djokovic has been very vocal about the devastating bushfires in Australia. As the president of the ATP player’s council, his words hold a lot of currency.

In the past, he had claimed that the tournament’s conditions were playable. However, the qualifying rounds shattered this myth as players had to face the brunt of the polluted atmosphere.

Now, Djokovic has revealed that he is saddened to hear about players collapsing mid match and hopes that the environment gets better.

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What Did Novak Djokovic Say?

Djokovic said that he was concerned for the safety of the players after Slovenian Dalila Jakupovic had to retire during her match after she collapsed in an insane coughing fit.

“I think Melbourne at that time was the most polluted city in the world that day. It was sad to see some players collapsing and ball kids collapsing on the court.”

However Djokovic also took cognizance of the fact that the conditions are getting better.

“(The) last three days have been really good, fresh air, like nothing happened. Whether that’s going to stay or not, we don’t know. We hope (so), for the sake of well being and health of all the players.”

Djokovic also clarified that cancelling matches is an option with heavy consequences.

“Also this tournament obviously would have lots of troubles if they have to cancel matches. Luckily they have three closef courts with the roof. But still there is so many matches, so many players. Let’s hope that the worst is behind us.”

How Is The Australian Open 2020 Dealing With Pollution?

The Australian Open 2020 will be featuring indoor tennis courts and retractable roofs so that the game can continue despite the impediments.

Australian Open 2020 Will Feature Innovative Roofs To Counter The Bushfires

However, efforts need to be bullet proof to ensure smooth facilitation. In any case, the health and well being of the players should be paramount.

Talking about Novak Djokovic, he will be facing the unseeded Jan-Lennard Struff in the first round. His hard court record makes us believe that he’s the top contender to win the entire competition.

Do you think Novak Djokovic will have any major challenges in his Australian Open 2020 journey?