Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™ LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

Nadal, Djokovic defend Saudi exhibition

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are seeking more information before deciding whether to proceed with their exhibition match in Saudi Arabia.

tennis

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are scheduled for an exhibition in Saudi Arabia on December 22. (AAP)

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have defended their scheduled exhibition match in Saudi Arabia in the face of mounting criticism, but say they will seek more information before committing to the event.

Amnesty International have condemned the game which the pair were at pains to point out they committed to over a year ago - before the recent death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the country.

They are set to battle for the world No.1 spot at the Paris Masters in France this week but the focus was on their lucrative contest on December 22.

Nadal suggested he would seek more information, telling a press conference on the eve of tournament: "I had a commitment since one year ago. My team is talking to them, to analyse things.

"It's terrible that one journalist lost their life. I know something happened very bad inside there. I hope things will clarify as soon as possible."

Djokovic issued a similar message, saying: "Of course I'm aware of what's happening and it's sad.

"Because right now we just don't have enough information and we have to look into that a bit more and then we'll make our decision soon."


2 min read

Published

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Watch now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world