Novak Djokovic withdraws from ATP Cup, deepening Australian Open doubts

World No 1 Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the season-opening ATP Cup in Sydney, casting doubt on his Australian Open involvement

Djokovic has been named in the entry list for the Australian Open, which starts on January 17, but he could yet withdraw

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Djokovic will not compete at the upcoming ATP Cup in Sydney, adding to speculation whether he will be at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Photo: AFP

Published: 10:15am, 30 Dec 2021

Novak Djokovic has pulled out of this week’s ATP Cup in Sydney, organisers said on Wednesday, heightening doubts over whether he will defend his Australian Open title.

There has been intense speculation as to whether he will travel to Australia, having refused to confirm if he has been inoculated against Covid-19.

“World No 1 Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the 2022 ATP Cup,” organisers said ahead of Saturday’s start to the team tournament.

“Team Serbia will now be led by world No 33 Dusan Lajovic.”

Novak Djokovic has thrown even more doubt over his involvement in the Australian Open, after withdrawing from the ATP Cup. Photo: Getty Images

Djokovic, the nine-time Australian Open champion, could win a record 21st grand slam title if he plays at Melbourne Park next month, but to enter Australia he and members of his entourage have to be vaccinated.

He has previously expressed his opposition to the vaccine and his father Srdjan said in late November that Djokovic would probably not play the first grand slam of the year, accusing the organisers of “blackmail”.