Novak Djokovic’s application to enter the US to play in the ATP tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and organizers of the US Open on Friday.
The Serbian star is currently banned from entering the United States because he has not been vaccinated against Covid-19, but he has petitioned US authorities for special entry clearance.
On Friday, a post appeared on the US Open Twitter feed saying that US tennis authorities were hoping he would be allowed to compete.
Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest champions our sport has ever seen. “USA and the US Open are hopeful that Novak will successfully honor his request to enter the country and that fans will be able to see him in action again in Indian Wells and Miami.”
Next Wednesday, the Indian Wells ATP 1000 will kick off in the Californian desert, followed by the prestigious Miami tournament.
The United States still does not allow unvaccinated international travelers to enter the country, and the Transportation Security Administration recently said the policy would not change until at least mid-April.
Djokovic said in Dubai this week that he is still waiting for the US to grant him special entry clearance, telling reporters he hopes to hear a decision before the Indian Wells draw takes place on Monday.
“Whatever the decision before the draw, if I am not allowed, I will, of course, leave the game before the draw,” said the first racket of the world.
Due to Djokovic’s vaccination status, he was deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon, he also missed the US Open last year due to travel restrictions.
He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open and claiming a record 22nd Grand Slam singles title.
This week in Dubai, he brought his winning streak to 20 matches, and on Friday lost to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
