Roger Federer REFUSED Saudi Arabia exhibition invite, Djokovic and Nadal set to play
ROGER FEDERER has revealed he has REFUSED to play an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia - but Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are set to play.
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Saudi Arabia have been trying to increase their sporting profile in recent months, hosting a friendly between Argentina and Brazil earlier this month as well as the World Boxing Super Series final between George Groves and Callum Smith in September.
They are set to hold a special exhibition match between tennis’ two top-ranked players - Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - in December.
But there has been public calls for the duo to pull out of the event in the wake of the recent assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Turkish officials report Khashoggi, a stout critic of crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, was murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
Speaking ahead of the Paris Masters this week, both Nadal and Djokovic expressed their concerns at the ongoing inquiry to Khashoggi’s death.
However, neither confirmed whether they had decided to withdraw from the event scheduled to take place in December.
Now Federer has been asked about the exhibition match and revealed that he was invited to take part.
But the 20-time Grand Slam turned down the invite, stating he prefers to train that time of year, according to Sky Germany.
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His refusal to play seemingly had no correlation with Khashoggi’s death as Nadal revealed contracts were agreed one year ago.
“I had a commitment since one year to play there,” the Spaniard said.
“It’s terrible that one journalist lost their life.
“I know something happened very bad inside there.
“So we are looking about how the situation evolves and I hope the things will clarify as soon as possible.”
Djokovic also spoke at length about his plans to play in the tournament, stating a final decision has not been made yet.
“It’s unfortunate that we are both drawn into this right now,” he said.
“I’m aware of what’s happening, and it’s sad, of course.
“I’ve been always trying to be very professional and respectful towards people that I have commitments with.
“We have to get more information on what’s happening so we can make a rational decision whether it’s good to go or not.”