Adelaide International 2 Updates: Craig Defends Australian Open Date, Kyrgios injured & More
The Adelaide International 2 is about to start, and the event has garnered massive attention even before it begins. The statement by Tennis Australia that participants won’t need to submit a COVID-19 report has surprised everyone.
At the same time, Naomi Osaka’s sudden departure from the tournament added to the uncertainty surrounding the event. The surprises did not end here, as Nick Kyrgios has also suffered an injury that could suspend the player’s exhibition match against Djokovic.
With people getting wary of the event, Craig Tiley has defended the Australian Open’s start date. Tennis Australia’s CEO stated that postponing the event to give players a longer off-season is bizarre and ridiculous. It is a normal environment for everyone, and there will be players expected to compete with COVID too, added Craig.
The executive continued to talk about the charity match between Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios. The match is set to be the finale of the series, a chance to prepare the audience for the Slam. These matches will also include Maria Sakkari, Rafael Nadal, Dannil Medvedev, and Coco Gauff, to name a few who can certainly make odds go high at many tennis betting sites.
According to Craig, despite Kyrgios withdrawing from the United Cup squad, the player has assured to be fit for the match. The player was recently reported to suffer from a persistent ankle injury. This will be Djokovic’s return to Melbourne after the player was deported before 2022’s tournament.
Speaking of Djokovic, the star player was recently involved in another controversy. After a 6-3 and 6-4 win against Daniil Medvedev, many questioned the hamstring injury the Serbian suffered from. The 21-time grand slam winner was seen clutching at the tendon throughout the game.
Even Daniil hints at the player faking an injury, which is also pointed out by Djokovic’s celebration after winning points. The concern deepened after the 35-year-old stated that it was nothing serious in the after-match interview.
Nonetheless, the duo is set to exhibit their skills in the charity match. In addition, tennis fans are looking forward to the string of heated games scheduled for Adelaide International 2.