Laver Cup: But only one of the top four?
Actually, the Laver Cup 2022 should bring the Big Four of tennis together again. However, it is questionable whether this will actually work.
by Jens Huiber
last edit:
Sep 08, 2022, 08:41 am
The idea was as impressively simple as it was exciting: for the first time, the four dominant players of the last two decades were to play together in one team, namely as part of the Laver Cup from September 23rd to 25th in London's O2 Arena. Roger Federer, on whose initiative the comparison between Europe and the world dates back. Novak Djokovic, who finally wanted to grab the racket again. Rafael Nadal, who holds the record in this category with 22 Major wins. And also Andy Murray, who only completed the "Big Four". And for whom the appearance at the Laver Cup will be a premiere.
As of today, one has to state: Murray also seems to be one of the four candidates who will definitely serve. After his elimination from the US Open against Frances Tiafoe, Rafael Nadal left open when he would pick up the racket again professionally. There are more important things than tennis, Nadal explained in his exit PK - and meant above all the imminent birth of his first son.
Djokovic cancels for the Davis Cup
Novak Djokovic was only involved once, namely in Chicago in 2018. The reigning Wimbledon champion has not been allowed to play a match since his final victory against Nick Kyrgios in London - due to his vaccination status. Djokovic actually wanted to return to the Davis Cup in Malaga next week. For personal reasons, however, he canceled the Serbian team. Will the start in London also wobble? One does not know. In the week after the Laver Cup, Novak Djokovic called for the ATP Tour 250 tournament in Tel Aviv.
And the Maestro himself? Roger Federer has been seen and heard from on social media a few times over the summer. Whether and how much the Swiss has honed his tennis skills is anyone's guess. In any case, only a start in doubles can be assumed.
This puts all the pressure on Murray, who failed in New York in round three on Matteo Berrettini, and the two relative youngsters Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Ruud was very convincing at the US Open, playing against Karen Khachanov in the semifinals on Friday. Tsitsipas, on the other hand, is suddenly looking for form again after the good tournament in Cincinnati. Because the opening defeat against Daniel Elahi Galan left many questions unanswered.