A LAST minute withdrawal from world number one Novak Djokovic has shaken up the 2022 ATP Cup draw, in particular Group A. The Serbians were strong favourites to reach the final again, having won it back in 2020. But with the news Djokovic is out of the event, the Serbian side drops back, holding the lowest ranked number one singles player in the group. It more than likely opens the door for Spain, with the European nation having the most depth in Group A.

GROUP A FIXTURES:

Chile vs. Spain – January 1, Ken Rosewall Arena
Serbia vs. Norway – January 1, Ken Rosewall Arena
Norway vs. Spain – January 3, Qudos Bank Arena
Serbia vs. Chile – January 3, Qudos Bank Arena
Norway vs. Chile – January 5, Ken Rosewall Arena
Serbia vs. Spain – January 5, Ken Rosewall Arena

Chile and Spain kick off the 2022 ATP Cup, with the double-header at Ken Rosewall Arena on New Year’s Day followed by Serbia up against Norway. Casper Ruud will have a huge advantage now Djokovic is out of the picture, instead taking on Dusan Lajovic. It means the Serbians will need to work out their second singles player, though Norway’s Viktor Durasovic is far lower ranked opponent than any of the Serbians. Spain would be favoured in its clash with Chile, with all their players ranked higher than their respective opponents.

The depth of the Spanish will come to the forefront at the tournament, and expect them to win most of their singles matches. The trick will be in the doubles, with the question over who will suit up, though the likes of Roberto Bautista Agut, Pablo Carreno Busta and Albert Ramos-Vinolas are more than capable. They should have a similar advantage over Noway on day three, though Ruud might cause some issues for Bautista-Agut, with the Spanish have been a far greater chance had Rafael Nadal been available.

Chile is the underdog in the group despite Norway’s lack of depth, with Cristian Garin likely to struggle across the board. He has been fairly handy at the team events before, but against the top-end talent, this will be a challenge. Djokovic’s withdrawal might help against Serbia, but Garin will be needed to suit up for doubles as well.

PREDICTION:

Prior to Djokovic’s withdrawal, Serbia was the favourite to advance. Now without the world number one, Spain should be favourites given its depth, with Ruud to do all he can for Norway. The European nation could potentially finish as high as second (or third), with Chile likely to finish at the bottom.