Djokovic commits to New York swing for Cincinnati and the US Open

Novak Djokovic is officially coming to New York, where he will be the top seed at both the Western & Southern Open and the US Open.

The world No. 1 shared the news on social media stating: "I’m happy to confirm that I‘ll participate at [Cincinnati] and [the US Open] this year. It was not an easy decision to make with all the obstacles and challenges on many sides, but the prospect of competing again makes me really excited."

Djokovic hasn't competed since his Adria Tour fell apart in June and he, as well as his wife and multiple players and coaches, tested positive for COVID-19. In recent weeks, he had been training on hard courts, prompting speculation that he was preparing for the U.S. summer swing.

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Earlier this summer, the Serbian was one of the top names to express hesitation at committing to New York's  "bubble" protocols, particularly when the reduced entourage size was going to be one person. He, and all participating players, will get to bring three guests. Players will be also permitted to stay outside of the official tournament hotels in private housing, but will have to pay for 24-hour security to do so.

With both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal not participating, the draw will look a little different for the US Open. The members of the Top 10 currently still entered include world No. 3 Dominic Thiem, last year's finalist Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tstisipas, Alexander Zverev, Matteo Berrettini and David Goffin.

Last year, Djokovic retired in the round of 16 with a shoulder injury. He will be seeking Grand Slam title No. 18, and his fourth US Open.