Andy Murray Reflects on Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic’s Absence at Cincinnati Open 2021

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray have nearly spent a decade competing against each other at every other important tournament on the Tour. Therefore, Murray feels that things are changing as he enters Cincinnati Open without the big three.

Given the absence, the Scot also sees this as an opportunity for players looking to win Masters titles. But above all, he is looking forward to seeing his arch-rivals back on the men’s circuit.

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 21: (L-R) Andy Murray of Great Britain, Novak Djokovic of Siberia, Roger Federer of Switzerland and Rafael Nadal of Spain attend a ceremony for Carlos Moya’s retirement during the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals at O2 Arena on November 21, 2010 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

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Andy Murray on Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic’s absence in Cincinnati

The former World No.1 Andy Murray feels that it is easier to win a tournament where only one rather than all three are present. Hence, he is bidding for players behind in Rankings or looking for their maiden Masters 1000 title to make a move here.

“It’s a big opportunity for the players to win these sorts of events when those guys aren’t playing,” Murray said. “Again, it’s a lot easier to win the tournament when only one of them is playing instead of all three of them. Yeah, it’s a different landscape, I think.”

Novak Djokovic of Serbia, Rafael Nadal of Spain and Roger Federer of Switzerlan wait to go on stage during the ATP Heritage Celebration at The Waldorf=Astoria on in New York City. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the three-time Grand Slam champion spoke about injuries and physical fitness taking over Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. Consequently, he is uncertain about their participation at the upcoming US Open 2021.

“My feeling is it’s changing because guys are getting, their bodies are breaking down a little bit and getting injured rather than like the tennis taking over them,” Murray added, “which I think is naturally what has happened in the past.”

While the Scot hopes to see them fit, Federer has already withdrawn from the US Open 2021. Additionally, Nadal is yet to reveal his decision after meeting his doctor in Spain.

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Who can win the US Open 2021?

Although Nadal’s participation is still uncertain, Djokovic is unlikely to miss New York. Moreover, he would be coming in with eyes on his 21st Grand Slam title.

Hence, it would be intriguing to see the next generation cornering Djokovic at the US Open. With Murray’s theory, the Serbian can miss out on his Calendar Grand Slam.

For now, the Scot will look forward to making a strong buildup for US Open in Cincinnati. Only time will tell what will happen at the much-anticipating last Grand Slam of the season.

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