Share

Novak to decide on China trip

Belgrade - World number one Novak Djokovic has hinted that he will decide by Friday if he can make the trip to Beijing for the China Open starting on Monday.

The Serb had been thought to be seriously in need of rest after re-injuring his back and ribs in Davis Cup semi-final play less than a fortnight ago.

He collapsed to the court in dramatic fashion during a match as his nation was defeated by Argentina.

Now Djokovic says it's all in the hand of his doctors, with whom he is expecting to meet within hours for a check-up.

The winner of 10 titles in 2011, including three of the four Grand Slams, would be sorely missed in China, especially after Roger Federer announced that he would rest and heal his own injuries instead of playing at the Shanghai Masters starting October 10.

Djokovic may have dropped a huge hint as to his form by playing this week in a charity football match in Belgrade - and scoring a goal as well. The fund-raiser was held on a proper pitch with uniforms and a serious attitude.

There seemed to be no stopping the Serb as he raced around in attack at the game which raised around 8 000 dollars for maternity hospital incubators.

By the time Djokovic informs nervous Beijing organisers as to his intentions, it will most likely be only hours until the draw is made for the joint ATP-WTA tournament in the capital.

The player's Italian clothing sponsor is Chinese-owned, and Djokovic carries a huge fan base in China, only increasing the commercial pressure on Djokovic to front up.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE