Why is Novak Djokovic not at Rafael Nadal's Davis Cup Finals tie despite plans to be in Malaga

Novak Djokovic was set to be one of the leading names who is at Rafael Nadal's farewell this week at the Davis Cup Finals but why is he not there when he faces Botic van de Zandschulp.

As per Marca, the Serbian who is in Marbella where he has one of his residences will not be attending on Tuesday hence his absence. But being nearby, it will be fairly easy with Djokovic planning to attend the tribute planned for Nadal this weekend if the national teams wins their Quarter-Finals against the Dutch team today.

Even if Nadal does lose against Botic van de Zandschulp, it is then up to Carlos Alcaraz with the top ranked Spanish star in Malaga to help after ending his main season at the ATP Finals. He faces Tallon Griekspoor but he has often been a spoiler and with Alcaraz not 100% during Turin, it could yet see the end before Djokovic could even get there.

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Roger Federer seemingly won't be there and instead sent a fairly heartfelt message to Nadal which went viral about how much he means to him. Djokovic's Serbia did not qualify for this year's edition. Last year he did play but lost out to Jannik Sinner in the start of a run of losses to the World No.1.

Sinner, Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur also lead a star studded line-up who will play this week amid the malaise of Nadal's farewell. The former's Italy are defending champions and will be favourites to defend it this time around.

Will Djokovic make it to Malaga? Time will tell but it seems likely that it will be up to Alcaraz in facing Griekspoor then the doubles tie whether it will happen. Their Quarter-Finals will take place at the weekend if they do get through.