Djokovic explains why he went against his coaches to remain the President of the ATP council (players)

Novak Djokovic is not only the world no.1, but he is also the engaged President of the ATP Council of the players. Novak has been at the center of rather strong criticism to be often unfairly attacked by the media because of his stance against the vaccination and the failure of the Adria Tour. The Serbian sensation was also criticized for not participating in a zoom meeting during the lockdown. However, Novak loves to help the others and despite the adverse opinion of his coaches Marian Vajda and Goran Ivanisevic, he decided to keep his position in the council even if that represents a distraction.

During a recent interview, Novak commented:

“Both of my coaches would have loved for me not to be involved with the Council, but I feel it’s my calling, I feel the need and responsibility. I am always willing to admit my mistakes. At the same time and contrary to public perception at times, I feel that I have big support from the vast majority of players.”

Novak is currently struggling with a neck injury in New York where he defeated Richard Berankins in straight sets in his opening match. There are still some question marks about his participation in the rest of the Western & Southern Open.

Novak will be opposed to Tennys Sandgren in the 3rd round. They played each other twice. The head to head is 2-0 for Djokovic. The last time that they played each other, Novak Djokovic won 6-1 6-3 6-7² 6-2 in the 2^nd round in New York (U.S. Open) in August 2018.

Djokovic in New York, ranking, and results in 2020

Now ranked no.1, Djokovic has a 19-0 win-loss record in 2020. Djokovic is playing at the moment in New York where he ousted Richard Berankis 7-6² 6-4.

Novak has won 2 titles in 2020 at the Australian Open and in Dubai.

Djokovic won 80 titles in his career: 47 on hard courts, 14 on clay courts, 13 on indoor courts and 6 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)

Sandgren in New York, ranking, and results in 2020

Currently ranked no.55, the American has a 7-4 win-loss record in 2020. Sandgren is currently playing in New York where he bested Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 7-6⁷ and Felix Auger Aliassime 6-7⁴ 6-2 7-6⁵.