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“Part of Life on the Circuit”: Novak Djokovic Disregards Naomi Osaka’s Decision to Skip Pressers at French Open 2021

World number one Novak Djokovic, who is currently playing the second clay-court event in Belgrade, is one of the top contenders at the upcoming French Open, besides Rafael Nadal. The Serb, who played extremely well at the Italian Open, was defeated by Nadal in the finals.

Both Nadal and Djokovic formed one of the greatest rivalries in the sport, if not the best. In the Roland Garros main draw released few hours ago, the two players, along with Roger Federer, were placed in the same half. As a result of this, the duo might meet in the semi-finals.

Novak Djokovic
Tennis – ATP Masters 1000 – Italian Open – Foro Italico, Rome, Italy – May 16, 2021 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in action during his final match against Spain’s Rafael Nadal REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane

Also read: “He Has a Great Desire to…”: Brother Reveals Why Novak Djokovic Is Playing in Belgrade Near French Open 2021

Novak Djokovic reveals opinion on Osaka’s decision to skip the pressers at French Open

Because of Big-3 getting stacked in the top-half, players like Stefanos Tsitsipas, Dominic Thiem, has a real chance of making into the finals. Speaking about the French draw after his comfortable quarter-final victory against Federico Coria in Serbia, Djokovic revealed the reason behind choosing to play back-to-back tournaments on the red dirt this year.

You always want to play like this. Everything worked perfect. It gives me a lot of confidence in the face of what is coming”, the world number one said.

Later, the Serb was asked about Naomi Osaka‘s shocking decision to skip the pressers at the French Open this year. The Japanese player shocked everyone with her decision to opt out of press conferences to protect her mental health. This decision by Osaka was received with mixed opinions.

Novak Djokovic
Tennis – ATP Masters 1000 – Italian Open – Foro Italico, Rome, Italy – May 16, 2021 Serbia’s Novak Djokovic poses with the runners up trophy after losing against Spain’s Rafael Nadal in the final REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane

Even though some fans felt Osaka’s decision was personal and should not be judged, few others, including several journalists felt that press conferences are part of any tennis player’s life. The Japanese was expected to embrace the tough questions posed at her, especially after a heavy defeat.

Commenting on Osaka’s decision, Djokovic said, “Press conferences are part of sport, of life on the circuit”.

The French Open organizers announced a fine to the players who skip a press conference. Osaka also mentioned in her announcement that she will pay the fine.

The repercussions of Osaka’s decision will be revealed next week as several players will also be asked about the decision in their conferences as well.

Also read: “Real Shame”: Renowned Tennis Journalist Opens up on Naomi Osaka’s Press Conference Boycott at French Open 2021

The post “Part of Life on the Circuit”: Novak Djokovic Disregards Naomi Osaka’s Decision to Skip Pressers at French Open 2021 appeared first on EssentiallySports.