Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to reconsider Saudi Arabia match amid mounting criticism

The duo committed to an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia over a year ago but the arrangement has been condemned by Amnesty International in the wake of the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi

Monday 29 October 2018 08:54 EDT
Comments
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic could reconsider their exhibition match
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic could reconsider their exhibition match (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

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's consulate in Istanbul.

They are set to battle for the world number one spot at the Paris Masters in France this week but the focus was on their lucrative contest on December 22.

Both players will seek further information before playing
Both players will seek further information before playing (Getty)

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."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in