Novak Djokovic Out Of Miami Due To COVID Restrictions
The Miami Masters will be Big 3-less for the first time since 2004. Following withdrawals from Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, on Friday 6-time champion Novak Djokovic also withdrew citing COVID restrictions.
“Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that this year I won’t travel to Miami to compete. I decided to use this precious time at home to stay with my family. With all restrictions, I need to find balance in my time on tour and at home. I look forward to coming back next year!” he posted on twitter.
The tournament plans to employ an Australian Open-like restrictive bubble requiring players to stay between the hotel and site.
Prize money is also sharply down. The 2021 winner earns $300K vs $1.35M which Roger Federer won for beating John Isner in the 2019 final.
Djokovic is expected to play in Monte Carlo and Belgrade to start his clay season next month.
Dominic Thiem also withdrew leaving Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas as current the top seeds.
Curiously, the women’s field for now appears to be at full strength with Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka, Simona Halep and Serena Williams entered.
The tournament begins on Wednesday with draws released on Monday. A maximum of 750 fans per session are allowed.
Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that this year I won’t travel to Miami to compete. I decided to use this precious time at home to stay with my family. With all restrictions, I need to find balance in my time on tour and at home. I look forward to coming back next year!
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 19, 2021
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