Nick Kyrgios believes it will be a disaster for tennis if the Australian Open takes place without any member of the Big Three.
Two members of the trio, who have won a total of 60 Grand Slam titles between them, are currently in doubt for the major event. Rafael Nadal is in Spain recovering from COVID-19 which forced him to delay his flight to Australia. The Spaniard hasn’t played a Tour match since August due to a foot injury.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic’s participation in the event is still unknown. The Serbian is refusing to say in public if he is vaccinated against COVID-19 which is a requirement for all players to play the Australian Open unless they are medically exempt. Serbian newspaper Blic has quoted ‘sources’ saying that Tennis Australia is trying to negotiate a medical exemption in order for Djokovic to play but this hasn’t been officially confirmed. It is unknown as to what medical reason has been given to the health panel who will make a decision on the case.
With less than three months before the first major tournament of 2022 gets underway, Kyrgios says it would be a big blow if Nadal and Djokovic decide to not play. Roger Federer has already withdrawn due to a knee injury which is set to sideline him for a few more months and possibly beyond Wimbledon.
“I honestly don’t know Novak’s current situation with anything Covid-related or what he needs to play,” he told The Age newspaper.
“I hope he’s had a good Christmas and I hope he’s able to play in the sport for as long as possible because I’ve voiced before I think Federer, Nadal and Djokovic need to be (playing).
“If all three aren’t there, it’s a disaster. It’s an absolute disaster for the fans and the people that enjoy tennis.
“Yes, it’s obviously a good opportunity for some of the younger guys to come through and make an impact, but as a whole, we do need them to be part of the sport.”
Kyrgios has scored multiple wins over the two tennis titans during his career – beating Djokovic twice and Nadal three times. However, in recent years he has only played on the Tour infrequently. Since January 2020 he has played in just 10 tournaments with four of those being in his home country.
Part of the reason for his light schedule is due to injury with a knee problem hindering him in recent weeks. Nevertheless, Kyrgios says he is now fully recovered and ready to return to the limelight.
“My knee is something that has been hindering my career for a while now, it’s just something I had cleaned up last year and it feels good,” he said.
“I want to enjoy myself, I want to be happy, and that is it.”
Kyrgios is set to start his 2022 season at the Sydney Tennis Classic which will begin on January 10th.
