Djokovic: “I didn't make the decision to play because of Nadal's loss”

The world number one, Serbian Novak Djokovic, assured that he took the decision to return to the tracks in the United States (Cincinnati and US Open) on his own initiative and in no case was he guided by the absence of Rafa Nadal, who has preferred not to play because of the situation pandemic that stopped the competition completely last March.

“I did not make my decision for the loss of Rafa (Nadal); if that is what people want to hear “said Djokovic on the tournament's 'media day' of Cincinnati. The Serbian is released from playing the first round and will make his debut against a tennis player from the previous round or Tommy Paul, number 57 in the ranking ATP. “I made the decision to come to the US Open months ago, wanted to play here because I really wanted to restart on a hard court where I feel the most comfortable”added 'Nole' about the New York conditions, which suit his style of play very well.

Djokovic is the absolute favorite in the Billie Jean King National Tennis New York Center -Instead of its usual headquarters in Cincinnati- in absence of his biggest rivals, including the Swiss Roger Federer. Be the first time in his career that the Balkan faced a 'big' without such opponents. Victory in the Big Apple would give the 33-year-old an 18th title 'big' and would place him only one from Nadal and two from the all-time record, in the hands of Federer.

Four of the 11 best ATP players in the world will not be in New York, as does three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka, but Djokovic doesn't consider himself the favorite for the US Open. “Every 'Grand Slam' I play is a shot at a title. I know. But I'm not the only one”, said.

“If I have a better chance of winning because Roger and Rafa are not here, I really don't know. Anyone can win it, to be honest “, added Djokovic, who could face Andy Murray. The Scotsman returns to an official event for the first time since November last year with a groin injury.