Novak Djokovic returns to US with 'zero regrets'

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Novak Djokovic last appeared in the United States in 2021 at the US Open, and this week, he is prepared to play in several tournaments starting with the Cincinnati Open

He had not been in the U.S. due to his coronavirus vaccination status.

Over the weekend, Djokovic was greeted by a huge crowd that gathered around the dominant tennis star to watch him practice before he plays in Wednesday's tournament.

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Novak Djokovic reacts during his five-set loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the Gentlemen's Singles Final match on Centre Court during the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club at Wimbledon on July 16, 2023, in London. (Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

"I made a joke with my coach and asked him whether we were at the right court, because we thought it was a match," he said in an interview posted on the ATP website. "It's really amazing. I'm very grateful for the presence of so many people at a practice session."

He said he is still "motivated" to play in the best tournaments the sport has to offer.

"There's still that drive and motivation to really come at the biggest events in sport and try to win, try to win titles and try to bring some good sensation to the crowds," he said. "If I'm not motivated, I wouldn't be here.

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Novak Djokovic in action against Carlos Alcaraz in the Gentlemen's Singles Final match on Centre Court during the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club at Wimbledon on July 16, 2023,