Tokyo 2020: Djokovic on Osaka lighting cauldron – It cannot be better for our sport
Osaka was given the honour of carrying the torch on the short final leg at the Japan National Stadium before walking the steps to light the flame and end the opening ceremony.
The four-time grand slam champion is the face of the Tokyo Games in her home country, creating extra pressure on her shoulders as she bids to strike gold.
Djokovic appreciates the absences of legendary names Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is a blow, but he believes Osaka’s presence is crucial for tennis in the battle for media coverage at the Games.
“It cannot be better for our sport, you are representing yourself, your country but also your sport in the Olympic Games, you’re trying to get the hype and the attention towards our sport as much as you possibly can, so we’re all contributing to that in the Olympic Village,” Djokovic said when asked about Osaka’s role in Friday’s ceremony.
“There’s a lot of attention towards the tennis players which is great, from the other athletes which is very nice to see, very nice to experience.
“Obviously you don’t have Roger or Rafa. They are big stars and legends of our sport, but still there’s quite a lot of great athletes, top players. Naomi is a home favourite and a lot of eyes are on her.
