After a dramatic lead-up that drew attention the world over, the 2022 Australian Open is finally here. While Novak Djokovic will continue dominating the headlines — whether he is able to play or is sent home — those in the draw will be chasing the year’s first major title.
Even if Djokovic isn’t able to participate, and despite the absence of other high-profile names, the event remains star-studded. So which players will those of us stateside want to set our alarm clocks for — and what are the key storylines to watch? We answer all that and more.
The Djokovic drama
Will he or won’t he? We’ll spare you the complete play-by-play — although we’ve got that for you here if you want a refresher — but the world No. 1 is currently facing deportation, yet again, from Australia after Immigration Minister Alex Hawke announced on Friday he would be canceling Djokovic’s visa in the interest of public health.
Djokovic and his legal team are fighting the ruling, and his lawyers appeared in court on Friday night for an emergency after-hours hearing. Djokovic was taken back into immigration detention on Saturday morning and a hearing was scheduled for Sunday (9:30 a.m. AEDT / 5:30 p.m. ET) to determine his tournament fate.
Djokovic, the nine-time Australian Open champion, currently remains in the draw and is slated to begin play on Monday against fellow Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic. If he is forced to withdraw before the order of play for Monday is released, he will be replaced in the bracket by No. 5 seed Andrey Rublev. If he has to withdraw after the schedule is announced, a “lucky loser” will take his place. Simply put: It’s a complicated mess that has left the men’s draw in complete disarray.
If he’s able to play, he will certainly remain a favorite to win the title. But with reduced training time and the immense distraction of his visa issues, this will be an uphill battle even for…
Source : espn
