Germany’s Alexander Zverev has opened up about the absence of the former world number one Novak Djokovic from the upcoming ATP Finals albeit with jibes from his fellow rivals.
The last major event in the men’s tennis calendar is set to begin in a few days in Turin, Italy, where the top eight players will participate to showcase their talent and secure the ultimate prize.
One big-name player who will miss out on this year’s competition will be the defending champion, Djokovic. The 37-year-old, who is often regarded as the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis in the singles category in the Open era, having won as many as 24 Grand Slam titles, lifted the ATP Finals title last year after beating reigning world number one Sinner in the final in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-3.
A few days back, Djokovic announced in a post on his official account on the social media platform Instagram that he would not take part in the upcoming mega-event because of a fitness concern. "I was really looking forward to being there, but due to ongoing injury, I won't be playing next week," he wrote. “Apologies to those who were planning to see me. I wish all the players a great tournament. See you soon!"
Zverev, who will be playing the upcoming competition as the number two seed and is coming off an impressive triumph in the Paris Masters, was recently quoted in a report by the English media outlet Daily Express, where he stated that it would be ‘strange’ not to have Djokovic play the competition, especially because of his success in the ATP Finals.
“I think I played the Finals the most out of everyone. F*** I feel old," said Zverev. To which Rublev replied: "You are".
“Can you be quiet?” he joked. “We’re quiet, we don’t get any questions so you go ahead," stepped in Ruud.
“I think it’s strange to not see Novak here just because of all the success he had and for me, he’s still one of the best players in the world,” said the reigning world number two. ““I mean, he qualified for this event, right? He just chose not to play it.”
The last dance was an epic one. And of course emotional. I’ll cherish our rivalry forever, @rafaelnadal 👑. Tennis will miss you.
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 19, 2024
As-salamu alaykum, Riyadh. #SixKingsSlam is a special tournament. See you soon 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/CnBswzZnLy