"Not good for tennis" - Djokovic talks Alcaraz missing Australian Open
ATP
Novak Djokovic was disappointed after finding out that Carlos Alcaraz wouldn't compete at the 2023 Australian Open.
The Serbian player prepared for the first Grand Slam of the season at the Adelaide International, which he ended up winning after beating Sebastian Korda in a three-set final battle.
While he could prepare for the Australian Open, one of the top favorites, Carlos Alcaraz, couldn't do the same, as he has been struggling with an injury.
In fact, Alcaraz won't compete at the Australian Open, clearing the path to the title for Djokovic. However, even though some could think that the Serbian player would be happy about the Spaniard's withdrawal, the opposite is true.
First of all, Djokovic of course feels sympathetic towards his colleague, knowing how it feels to miss a major because of an injury. At the same time, the Serbian is also a competitor, and he doesn't want any freebies.
He wants to beat the best to win the big titles. Djokovic spoke about Alcaraz's withdrawal in Adelaide, sharing his disappointment.
"Obviously, it's not good for tournament, not good for tennis. He's number one in the world. Such a young player. A big name, big star in our sport already."
"I'm sure that many of the fans are disappointed. I hope for his speedy recovery. Whatever it is, I know he had injury end of last season that was different from this."
Djokovic knows how challenging it is to recover from an injury and come back. He knows that Alcaraz has previously struggled with an abdominal injury before now picking up a leg injury. All the Serbian could do was wish the youngster a quick recovery.
"You're constantly on the road, playing competitions. When you are out of that rhythm, your body can react."
"You can have some injuries and difficulties when you come back to the tour and start pushing more and playing points, giving more intensity in the points, practice points, practice matches."
"It's unfortunate for him (but) he's still young, got plenty of time. I hope he can recover and be back on the tour quickly."
