Tennis Today: Novak Djokovic ‘feeling out of shape’ in Japan as he returns from injury
In Tennis Today, Novak Djokovic undergoes unusual fitness testing in Japan, and Maria Sharapova shocks the world by actually allowing herself to be seen with her boyfriend.
What’s on the site
The Asian swing steps up a gear this week, and the China Open draw looks absolutely stacked full of talent.
The man that is probably not great news for is Andy Murray, who has received a pretty tough draw that may not be all that productive in getting matches under his belt…
It does, though, as ever, present a chance to win some money off the bookies. Our man Deggsy was desperately close to landing a 50/1 tip last week, so it’s definitely worth seeing who he fancies for China and Tokyo.
Daniil Medvedev is impressing everyone right now, but has attracted a high-pedigree fan in Andre Agassi. He has been explaining exactly what he believes makes the Russian special.
What’s in the news
Novak Djokovic is feeling ‘out of shape’ – for sumo wrestling.
The world number one is making his comeback from a shoulder injury bt playing the Japan Open for the first time, and he has taken advantage of that by doing some unique promotion.
That meant a visit to Ryogoku Edo-Noren to attempt to move a 23-stone local sumo wrestler, which he couldn’t manage to do.
“It’s a great experience. I’ve never had this experience before,” Djokovic is widely quoted in the press to have said.
“It’s one of the most popular sports in Japan. Speaking with my father yesterday on the phone I was telling him that I’m going to have an opportunity to meet sumo wrestlers.
“He and I were remembering many years ago at home [when] we used to watch Akebono [Taro, who reached Yokozuna status], who was someone that we supported a lot.
“I felt that I am out of shape [for sumo] a little bit. I think with a few more kilos, I’ll be ready to compete.
“Probably three times as much as I have right now would be the right measurement for me to compete.”
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail has reported on Maria Sharapova making “a rare appearance with her boyfriend Alexander Gilkes” at Paris fashion week.
So that gives you some idea of how quiet the tennis news wires are today…
What’s on social media
Novak Djokovic, sumo wrestler, etc etc…
Chris Evert appreciates her weekends more than most, it seems…
View this post on Instagram
Maria Sharapova without boyfriend, at the same event that the Daily Mail reported on…
Call us cynics if you like, but we are still not really getting the ‘I miss tennis’ vibes from Genie Bouchard…
What’s on TV
WTA Beijing – BT Sport
ATP Beijing – Amazon Prime
ATP Tokyo – Amazon Prime
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