Djokovic, a surprise participant in Geneva?
This eventuality, which was downright comical just a few days ago, now seems a little more credible. As revealed by our Swiss colleagues at Blick, the Serb is considering taking part in the ATP 250 in Geneva in order to accumulate a few more matches before the start of the French Open.
Indeed, it's possible that the world number 1, still in search of his first title of the season, will ask for an invitation to the Swiss tournament. Having made a very average start to the season, such a choice would give him a little more confidence ahead of his title defence in Paris. That said, 'Nole' is not in the habit of playing a tournament the week before a Grand Slam, although he has done so once, in 2017. That year, he played at Eastbourne before Wimbledon.
Our Swiss colleagues also remind us that the 'Djoker' has certain links with the tournament, as Janko Tipsarevic, a close friend of Djokovic, is the brother-in-law of Rainer Schuttler, co-owner of the Geneva tournament.
While the field at the Swiss tournament is already very strong for an ATP 250, with the presence of several renowned players (Casper Ruud, Andy Murray, Nicolas Jarry, Andy Murray, Taylor Fritz), the defending champion at the next French Open could be the icing on the cake.
In any case, the answer will be given very soon, as the tournament has so far only revealed one of its three Wild-Cards (offered to Andy Murray). Among the contenders are Matteo Berrettini, who has visibly recovered, and above all Grigor Dimitrov (10th), who is already on site since his elimination in Rome.
One thing's for sure: all the Serb has to do is make a phone call and he'll get one of the remaining invitations, much to the annoyance of Matteo Berrettini.
To be continued...