Novak Djokovic withdraws from Australian tournament

World number one men’s tennis player Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the Serbian team for the ATP Cup in Sydney.

The withdrawal is fuelling speculation that Djokovic won’t play in the Australian Open.

It comes after the 34-year-old repeatedly refused to say whether he’s received COVID-19 vaccinations.

All players competing in the Australian Open and lead-in events must be fully-vaccinated or have a medical exemption.

Journalist at Sport Klub, Saša Ozmo, says Djokovic’s withdrawal from the ATP Cup doesn’t mean he’s certainly out of the Australian Open.

“For me it’s not that big of a surprise he pulled out of the ATP Cup regardless of the Australian Open because he finished his season three weeks ago,” he told Emily Power and Jimmy Bartel, filling in for Ross and Russel.

“He needed a bit more rest.

“As far as the Australian Open goes, it has to do with a different thing. At this point, I’m not sure what’s going to happen and I don’t think anyone knows.”

Mr Ozmo says Djokovic will “probably” lose the world number one ranking if he doesn’t play in the Australian Open.

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