Tennis Australia CEO defends Novak Djokovic’s quarantine wishlist

Recently the World Number one Tennis player Novak Djokovic wrote a note to Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley and demanded easier lockdown protocols ahead of the Australian Open. Djokovic received criticism for his demands from all across the globe and former players.

The Serbian wishlist included reduced isolation periods for players and moving as many players as possible to private residences with Tennis courts. However, Tiley cleared the air and revealed that Djokovic didn’t demand all these things but he gave his suggestions in a note.

Tiley added that Djokovic understands the strict 14-day lockdown for the players and he also respects the same.

“In the case of Novak, he wrote a note, these weren’t demands, they were suggestions, but he is understanding what two weeks of lockdown means,” Tiley said. “I think the reports we’re seeing and things we are seeing doesn’t represent the entire playing group. For the most part, they have been really good,” remarked Tiley. 

Meanwhile, Djokovic has had some kind of controversies in the recent past. Last year, the talisman resigned from his role of the ATP Players Council and went on to form his own player’s association. This move of Djokovic drew a lot of criticism from Tennis pundits.

Furthermore, Novak Djokovic was tested positive for the coronavirus in June 2020 after taking part in a tennis exhibition series, which he himself organized in Serbia and Croatia. Djokovic hadn’t taken the pandemic situation seriously at that stage.

On the other hand, Novak will represent Serbia in the ATP Cup 2021, which will take place just before the Australian Open. The World No. 1 will look to defend his title at the Australian Open and claim his ninth championship of the tournament. The AO will begin from February 8.