Novak Djokovic news: Fears of fresh debacle as Serbian is on ‘vaccinated-only’ Indian Wells entry list
All eyes are on the BNP Par and Novak Djokovic after it was confirmed that the Serbian is on the entry list for the ATP Masters 1000 event which “requires valid proof of full vaccination” against the Covid-19.
Djokovic was unable to defend his Australian Open crown in January after he was denied entry into the country over his visa paperwork. After winning an appeal against the original decision to revoke his visa, the country’s immigration minister then used his personal powers to cancel his visa for a second time on grounds that allowing him to stay would excite anti-vaccination sentiment.
The Serbian had confirmed in court papers that he was unvaccinated, but his autobiographer Daniel Muksch reported after the hard-court Grand Slam that he could have a change of heart, stating “I think he is getting vaccinated”.
Novak Djokovic news – Is the Serb about to end the saga and get vaccinated?
However, it is believed that he has still not been vaccinated, which raises many questions about his entry into the Indian Wells Masters, which starts on March 7, which is only open to fully vaccinated players.
A statement from tournament organisers said: “The BNP Paribas Open will require valid proof of full vaccination to enter the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the tournament.
“The guidelines for the players are governed by the protocols established by their respective governing bodies, the WTA and ATP, as well as any restrictions established by the United States of America in regard to the vaccination status of international travellers entering the country.”
However, as with the Australian Open there is a grey area as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does allow for “limited exceptions”.
“You must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if you are a non-U.S. citizen, non-U.S. immigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa). Only limited exceptions apply,” the CDC website states.
Djokovic also missed last year’s rescheduled BNP Paribas Open, which took place in October due to the coronavirus pandemic, as he opted to take an extended break after the US Open.
Latest
-
Tennis News
Carlos Alcaraz identifies key Grigor Dimitrov threat as he seeks revenge in Miami showdown
Carlos Alcaraz and Grigor Dimitrov have looked ahead to their Miami Open match.
-
WTA Tour
Charleston Open hand former No 1 wildcard to start her clay season
Wildcards were forthcoming for former world No 1 Caroline Wozniacki, world No 13 Beatriz Haddad Maia, and Charleston-native Shelby Rogers.
-
Tennis News
Former world No 1 weighs in on Iga Swiatek’s ‘aura’ as he makes ‘intimidating’ claim
“The more accomplishments Iga Swiatek has, the more intimidating it is to play her.”
-
WTA Tour
Naomi Osaka’s clay swing fills out with Rouen wildcard
Naomi Osaka gets Rouen wildcard to kickstart her clay swing.
-
WTA Tour
Danielle Collins balks at being asked to explain retirement
Danielle Collins has responded to those who question why she has decided to retire from tennis at the end of the current season.
-
Tennis News
‘Novak Djokovic’s problem is psychological’, assesses Roger Federer’s former coach
“Undoubtedly, ‘Nole’ must have fire inside, otherwise he is missing something.”
-
Tennis News
Daniil Medvedev discusses his popularity compared to Carlos Alcaraz as he offers a theory
“For me, the result is the most important, it’s more important than, let’s say, looking good on the court.”
-
Tennis News
Andy Roddick gives honest verdict on Novak Djokovic’s shock coaching split
“I was surprised. You don’t look to make moves in March or April. This has had to be a surprise to both of them.”
-
ATP Tour
Jannik Sinner makes revealing comment on his eyesight after Miami Open win
Jannik Sinner opened up on his use of contact lenses on court.
-
Tennis News
Martina Navratilova serves up a desperate verdict on Andy Murray’s comeback hopes
Andy Murray is likely to have to wait several days to learn how long he will be sidelined for by the ankle injury he suffered in Miami.