Doubts continue to exist over the participation of various players at the Tokyo Olympics. While Japan declared a new state of emergency, Roger Federer announced his withdrawal to increase those doubts. However, World No. 1 Novak Djokovic recently made a gesture that suggested he won’t join the withdrawal list.

Ahead of the global sporting spectacle, the Serbian surprised a young fan on his sixth birthday.

Novak Djokovic indirectly confirms his participation in the Tokyo Olympics

With Japan declaring a state of emergency due to COVID-19, fans will not attend the Olympics in stadiums. However, prior to this announcement, several players on the ATP tour had already announced their withdrawal from the quadrennial event.

This list includes high-profile players like Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, and Denis Shapovalov, who rank in the Top 10. Recently, Federer joined that list citing a knee injury after his quarterfinal exit at Wimbledon.

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However, six-time Wimbledon champion Djokovic looks highly unlikely to join that list. While doubts on his participation existed earlier, the World No. 1 quashed those doubts with a heartwarming gesture for a young fan.

In the video, the Serbian wishes a young six-year-old named Kojirou on his birthday via a video message. He said, “Konnichi wa Kojirou! Happy birthday, my friend! Happy 6 birthday! You?re looking great. I?m following your tennis, your progress. All the best! I wish you luck and hopefully, I can see you in Tokyo Olympic Games.”

Although fans cannot attend the Games at the stadium, this gesture might reassure ‘Djoker’ fans of his participation in Tokyo.

READ MORE: Novak Djokovic Records Which May Never Be Broken

Is Djokovic an outright favorite at the Tokyo Olympics?

Although the Serb is in exquisite form, he still faces pressure in terms of creating history. While he chases a Golden Slam this year, he carries immense confidence heading to Tokyo.

In addition, the Serbian is the only one among the ‘Big 3’ to participate in the Tokyo Olympics. With several high-profile stars dropping out of the Olympics, this could be Djokovic’s best chance to clinch his first gold medal at the Games.

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