Seven-time Grand Slam champion and Eurosport member Mats Wilander acknowledges that the Australian Open is Novak Djokovic’s most successful Grand Slam and that it would be natural for him to break the all-time Grand Slam record in Melbourne.
Djokovic has 20 Grand Slams in his collection and nine of those 20 Majors arrived at Melbourne Park. Last week, the Australian Open confirmed that only fully vaccinated players will be able to compete at Melbourne Park.
“I think the Australian Open is obviously doing what they have to do and the Australian government has decided that this is what is going to happen,” Wilander told Eurosport. “I can easily see that some players are not going to get vaccinated and they are not going.
Its a big problem? Yes, it is a big problem for the Australian Open, but it gives opportunities to other players. I don’t know what Novak Djokovic is going to do ”
Wilander wouldn’t be surprised if Djokovic skipped Melbourne
“Is the Australian Open the biggest tournament of his career? Well, it’s the most successful Grand Slam for him.
I’m not sure if it’s more important than the French Open or Wimbledon or the US Open, but it is his most successful Slam, “Wilander continued.” It would be the most natural place for him to break the 20 Grand Slams tie with Roger and Rafa.
But at the same time, I think Novak Djokovic is thinking about his own health. He is thinking about the future. He’s thinking long-term, so I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Novak doesn’t go.
Will it damage the tournament? Yes, it will damage the tournament in a way. But at the same time, we have a better chance of seeing a new Grand Slam champion, so I wouldn’t be so worried. “
Djokovic has been absolutely dominant in the Aussie for the last decade. Djokovic has won the last three editions of the tournament and will be the top seed to win a fourth title in a row if he decides to play.
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