Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

Published Oct 29, 2018

Nadal, Djokovic battle for No. 1 in Paris:

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Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic say they are evaluating their scheduled exhibition in Saudi Arabia following international condemnation of the country's government.

Both are assumed to be receiving a seven-figure sum for playing, but there have been questions about the political message that would be sent by their appearance there.

Nadal said the offseason exhibition had been arranged a while ago, but was now being reconsidered—though no decision has yet been reached.

"I had a commitment since one year to play there," Nadal told press before the Paris Masters. "I know something happened very bad inside [the consulate] there. And my team is taking to them, to analyze the things.

"I hope the things will clarify as soon as possible."

Djokovic added that he preferred not to get involved in political controversy, but acknowledged that they would have to evaluate whether to play as scheduled.

"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."

Both players promoted the announcement of the exhibition on social media this month.

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Thanks for the invitation and looking forward to playing and visiting for the first time ! https://t.co/hAKr5K4bnq
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 7, 2018

Looking forward to playing and visiting this beautiful country. Thank you for the invitation, see you guys soon! https://t.co/0ZgSLnLgQu
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 8, 2018

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These were their first comments on the issue since the exhibition was announced.

Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

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ATP Paris (Mon - Sun 10.29 - 11.4)
- Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic headline the ATP Rolex Paris Masters. Watch live coverage from three courts on Tennis Channel PLUS beginning Monday 10/29 at 6:00 AM EST.

WTA Zhuhai (Mon - Sun 10.29 - 11.4)
- Tennis Channel PLUS has live action of Zhuhai starting Tuesday 10/30 at 12:30 AM EST

USTA Tyler (Tue - Sun 10.30 - 11.4)
-Tennis Channel PLUS features live competition and on-demand coverage of every WTA match from USTA Tyler beginning Tuesday 10/30 11:00 AM EST

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