‘We’re Not the Most COVID Safe Country’- Tennis Star Taylor Fritz on Novak Djokovic Getting Exceptions to Enter US

Over the last decade, Novak Djokovic has been the hot favorite in close to every tournament, especially Grand Slams. However, ever since the start of the 2022 season, owing to his vaccination stand, he has been struggling to even enter tournaments, let alone win them. Adding to it, the Serbian is set to miss the upcoming US Open after failing to match the current COVID-19 protocols in the United States.

Ever since the announcement, the tennis world has been coming up with various views and opinions about Djokovic getting exceptions. While some have come out in support of the former world number one, others have backed up the decision of restricting him from playing. Recently adding to the debate is American star, Taylor Fritz.

Taylor Fritz opens up Novak Djokovic playing the US Open

Polishing himself for the US Open, the 24-year-old American is currently in Cincinnati, playing the Western & Southern Open. Following his second-round win over Nick Kyrgios, the 11th seed headed for the post-match press conference. During the press conference, he opened up about his thoughts on Novak Djokovic getting exceptions to play in the US Open.

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“It’s tough. I think on one side of it, like I think it’s tough to make certain exceptions to the rules for certain people. I don’t know how I feel about that…,” he started. “…at the same time, it’s like, I mean, we’re not the most COVID-safe country in general with, you know, how we are doing things,” he further added.

Fritz continued, “It does seem like, you know, what’s the harm of letting the best player in the world come play the US Open? But like I said, at the same time, it’s conflicting…”

Going ahead in the conversation, he admitted, “I don’t know how I feel about making special exceptions just for one person just because of who they are. So I see both sides of the argument, to be honest.” 

Djokovic not playing could be a good sign for other players

Novak Djokovic is one of a handful of players on the tour who has a winning head-to-head record against almost every player. With Djokovic being one of the most dominant players in the game, it is needless to say that his absence from the US Open could open doors for other players to hold the trophy.

And Fritz feels no different. Wearing his hilarious cap, the 2022 Indian Wells champion smiled as he said, “It’s good for every player if Novak is not in the draw. Adding on to it, he further said, “Novak is one of the only people on tour that I have never beaten.”

Watch This Story- Serena Williams once thanked fellow clown Novak Djokovic for reinstating an old Wimbledon tradition. 

With just 11 days to go for the US Open, do you think Novak Djokovic should be allowed to play? Let us know your views in the comments below.