Tennis legend Chris Evert is delighted that Novak Djokovic will play in the French Open as he is one of the few players who can trouble Rafael Nadal on clay. Nadal has an impeccable record on clay and Djokovic has the skills to challenge him.
Djokovic had beaten Nadal in the semifinal of the French Open in 2021 in a thrilling four-set contest. The Serbian had then gone on to win his 19th Grand slam title by beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final in five sets.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic had missed the Australian Open as he was unvaccinated and was deported from the country due to his visa controversy. The Serbian has also decided to opt-out of BNP Paribas Open and Miami due to the same reason.
However, it is good news for the Tennis fans that Djokovic will be allowed to defend his Roland Garros title as the French government has announced that it will lift its rules regarding Covid-19 vaccine passes.
The new rules are expected to be enforced from March 14 whereas the French Open will begin from May 22.
Chris Evert said in an interview with Eurosport, “Every time Novak Djokovic plays in a tournament, it’s better for tennis,” Evert said. “It’s much more interesting for everyone. And the fact that he is one of the few players who can cause Nadal problems on clay makes me happy that he can play at Roland Garros. I was a big fan of the ‘Big 3’ and their rivalry. I’m curious to see what happens.”
On the other hand, the former 18-time Grand slam champion added she admires Novak Djokovic but at the same time she is a big supporter of vaccines.
“I have a lot of respect for anyone who has their beliefs and believes in them to the end,” Evert said. “I’m a big supporter of the vaccine because I really think it helps fight the virus and saves lives. So it’s mixed feelings. I admire and respect Novak because he does what he feels. He is very honest and direct with what he feels. On the other hand, I am a big supporter of the vaccine. All I’m saying is that I’m not judging Novak in one way or another.”
