The list of players competing at the Laver Cup 2023 has been released and most of the tennis fans have been left disappointed. None of the ‘Big 3’ are competing at the event this year with Federer retired, Nadal injured and Djokovic managing his workload. Gael Monfils, Hubert Hurkacz, Andrey Rublev, Holger Rune, Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas will make up Team Europe, who usually had Nadal, Djokovic, Federer and Murray playing for them.
The fans took to social media to vent their displeasure about the team and disappointment after the announcement. The ticket prices are very high for the event and with none of the ‘Big 3’ participating, tennis fans have been left displeased.
Laver Cup missing the biggest names
The Team Europe will have some familiar faces with young stars like Holger Rune, Casper Ruud and Tsitsipas. Meanwhile, the veteran Gael Monfils, could be having a swansong year as he prepares himself for retirement. The fans will be excited to see Holger Rune, as the youngster is having a breakout season and climbing up the world rankings.
Team World consists of: Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, Francisco Cerundolo, Felix Auger-Aliassime , Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz. The absence of Nick Kygrios will be evident as the charismatic Aussie will not be a part of this tournament. Tommy Paul will be the player to look forward to as the American is having a great season and is fresh from victories against some of the best players in the world.
After the announcement, the fans were left disappointed as there were no ‘Big 3’ to compete in the event this year. Many believed this will be a test of Laver Cup and the viewership it can get without Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray.
Will Roger Federer save the Cup?
Roger Federer has confirmed he will be present at the first day of Laver Cup. The Swiss will only make the draw for the final match of the first day and will return afterwards for an interview with Jim Courier. This will mark the one year anniversary of Federer’s retirement from tennis and the 20-time Grand Slam winner will be honored at this year’s event. Speaking about the Laver Cup, Federer said he is really looking forward to Vancouver and has heard great things about the place.
“I will miss the Laver Cup a lot as a player, and with this last match also played with Rafa, on court with Novak, Andy and everybody there to celebrate my career, will remain a very beautiful moment in my career. I’m really looking forward to Vancouver, I’ve only heard great things about the city.”
The Laver Cup 2023 will be a big indication of life after the ‘Big 3’ in tennis as the new generation of players try to make their mark on the tennis world. Team World will be confident of defending their trophy against a comparatively weakened Team Europe team.
