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Novak Djokovic remains undefeated in 2020, but is badly battered ahead of the US Open that starts on Monday. The Serbian makes his way to the final at the Western & Southern Open in New York against Roberto Bautista Agut (Spain) after three hours with 4: 6, 6: 4, 7: 6 (7: 0). There he meets Milos Raonic, who wins 7: 6 (7: 5), 6: 3 against Stefanos Tsitsipas.
If Djokovic can compete today (around 7pm CH time). The world’s number one is battling severe neck pain and stomach problems. He has to be treated and massaged three times and is on the verge of defeat.
The pill brings relief and change
A mystery pill brings relief after the lost starting set.
Apparently he should have been against stomach pain, supposedly the Serbian media. One thing is for sure: it helps: Thanks to a great fighting performance, Djokovic can get his head out of the circle.
To be honest, I don’t know how I won. Roberto was the best player today ”, says Djokovic directly on the field. “I didn’t feel good either physically or in my game, but I managed to overcome it”
Post-game problems got worse
The drama continues after the success. “Novak Djokovic did not feel well on the court and got worse after the game,” said a statement after the game. The tournament doctors then advised the 33-year-old not to give any more interviews. The winner’s press conference failed.
So the big question before the final and before the US Open that starts on Monday: How fit is Djokovic? The top seed was already suffering from neck pain at the beginning of the week and therefore withdrew from double competition. But especially in the quarterfinals, these seemed forgotten. Now they return with more violence. You may be his biggest opponent in the quest for the 18th Grand Slam title.
Along the field, Djokovic leads the revolution
Djokovic also provides a talking point next to the court, resigning as chairman of the players council and leaving it altogether. Like his colleagues Vasel Pospisil and John Isner. According to the New York Times, the trio should create their own organization. The “Professional Tennis Players Association” PTPA.
The newspaper has a role with which Djokovic & Co. announces the players as members. “The point of PTPA is not to replace ATP,” it says there. Much more, it is about better perceiving the needs and concerns of the players. The revolution is only intended for male professionals. The recipients of the letter are ATP players in the top 500 or top 200 in doubles.
