Novak Djokovic practices in Monte-Carlo ahead of return to tennis

Novak Djokovic is already on the court at the Monte Carlo Masters a week before he makes his return to competition at the tournament.

The world No 1 has played just one event so far this year as a result of his unvaccinated status and will be back in action at the first Masters 1000 of the clay season next week. Djokovic has shared footage of his first practice session at the Monte Carlo Country Club ahead of next week's Masters 1000 at the venue. The world No 1 resides in Monaco and knows the club well, training there throughout the year.

The 34-year-old was originally set to miss Monte Carlo when France introduced vaccine pass rules that meant all people entering sports venues, including athletes themselves, had to be fully vaccinated even if outdoors. But the restrictions were dropped in mid-March, meaning both the French Open and Monte Carlo Masters were added back into his 2022 calendar.

There are currently doubts over whether he will be able to play the other two clay courts Masters events in Madrid and Rome due to Spain and Italy's Covid travel restrictions. He is expected to participate in both events if he is allowed. The information was confirmed by his brother in ra recent interview