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Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

ByKamakshi Tandon

Published Oct 29, 2018

Nadal, Djokovic battle for No. 1 in Paris:

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Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

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

Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic re-evaluating Saudi Arabia exhibition

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ATP Paris (Mon - Sun 10.29 - 11.4)
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