Novak Djokovic (Photo : Getty Images)
Novak Djokovic's unexpected early exit in the Australian Open 2017 has opened for Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer to conquer the first Grand Slam event of the year.
Djokovic, a six-time Australian Open champion, was supposed to have a fresh start in Melbourne after ending last season's campaign in disappointing fashion. But after losing to wildcard Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan in the second round of the tournament, there have been questions about Djokovic's desire to win major events and get back atop the ATP World Rankings.
"It's a tough one - I feel for him and I still have so much respect for him," Boris Becker, Djokovic's former coach, told Eurosport. "This is a new situation for him. The Australian Open was always the foundation of the year and you leave Australia with the title in the bag and the 2000 points and the year plays much easier."
For Djokovic, this means an alarming situation of whether he could still right the ship early in the season. But for the other members of the "Big Four," the defending champs' shocking loss gives them great opportunities to win the tournament.
Federer, who needed some time off the Tour last year to recover from a knee injury, is having a strong showing in Melbourne, winning his first two matches in impressive form. With Djokovic out of the Australian Open, Federer could finally go for a record 18 Grand Slam singles titles, but only if he could win his next matches and a potential semifinal clash with Murray.
Nevertheless, with or without Djokovic in the event, Federer, who currently sits at No. 16 in the world rankings, could still wear his underdog tag.
"Yeah, why not for a change? I mean, I prefer to be the favourite. Underdog is OK," Federer said.
"As long as I'm healthy and I feel like I can go four, five sets, I can go many matches in a row, then I think it's going to be fun."
Likewise, Djokovic's early round exit gives Nadal a wide opening to win the Australian Open crown.
Nadal has been displaying some of his old form at the event as the Spaniard also attempts to remain healthy all throughout the competition. The 14-time Grand Slam winner followed Federer in skipping the remainder of the Tour in 2016 to fully heal a recurring left wrist injury. But his newfound rhythm suggests the King of Clay is back in the conversation to win another major.
"I feel my body has no injuries now, I suffered injuries in my career, I've had lots of success and lots of memories from where I have played. I can't complain. I am trying to enjoy every moment I am on court," Nadal said, reports the Telegraph.
Meanwhile, if there is someone who would ultimately benefit from Djokovic's absence, it would be Murray.
The Scot is now in pole position to win his first title at the Aussie Open and retain his spot atop the world rankings after Nole's defeat. Murray has steadily reached the third round of the tournament without dropping a single set, and it could only help his bid for a fourth Grand Slam singles title.
"In sport, when someone falls early, there's always a chance for someone else to take their chance and that's what will happen. There are enough great players that you absolutely cannot say that Murray will definitely reach the final," Former tennis player Barry Cowan told Sky Sports.
Despite shortcomings at the Australian Open, Djokovic is expected to get back on his winning track. But for the meantime, Melbourne's big stage is for the likes of Federer, Murray and Nadal to conquer.
