Tennis News: Novak Djokovic extends lead over Nadal in the 'Big Titles' race

The Serb earned his seventh victory at The Championships and 21st major title by outclassing Kyrgios 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3). He now has 64 "Big Titles," which places him 10 in front of Roger Federer and five ahead of Rafael Nadal. a Big Title refers to any trophy won at a Grand Slam competition, the Nitto ATP Finals, an ATP Masters 1000 competition, or an Olympic singles gold medal. 

Besides marching ahead in the race, Wimbledon benefited Djokovic in many other ways. It was a testament to his strong will proving he could win a grand slam after a rough patch lasting several months on tour. It has tied him with Pete Sampras, who has also won seven Wimbledon trophies. He is one title behind Roger Federer, popularly known as the king of grass. 

Tennis Australia CEO determined to end Djokovic's ban

Novak Djokovic had to be deported from Melbourne earlier this year due to his unvaccinated status before the Australian Open started. However, Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley revealed that they are "doing their best" to work around a solution. The Serbian tennis ace received a medical exemption to travel to Melbourne and seek his first Grand Slam of the year. However, the federal government took charge and sent him to a detention hotel upon arrival instead of letting him compete at the Australian Open. His bid to win the Grand Slam was crushed under restrictions imposed by Australia.

As Covid restrictions are prevalent in both the United States and Australia, the seven-time Wimbledon champion might not compete in another Grand Slam until French Open next year. Tiley is now hoping to lift the restrictions for next year's competition. "I think we are doing our best," he said, "Of course, it's not my decision whether he will be able to play at the Australian Open, but Novak is always welcome; he knows that many people in Australia like to watch him play. The world number seven's only hoping now is the possibility of US Open officials lifting their ban on unvaccinated players from flying into the States.

Mats Wilander thinks Djokovic is not bothered by the slide in rankings

Mats Wilander believes Novak Djokovic is unbothered by the rankings drop, especially after winning Wimbledon. The fall from world number three to seven is a direct consequence of the ATP stripping the event of its points. Mats Wilander gave his two cents on the situation, "To Novak Djokovic, I don't think it makes any difference whether he is the world No. 7 or world No. 1. For him, it's all about Wimbledon titles and Grand Slam titles and being the best in history." However, he will lose his position in the top 10 due to his inability to compete in the US Open based on restrictions for unvaccinated visitors.