John McEnroe backs Novak Djokovic in US Open row
John McEnroe believes that it is beyond belief that Novak Djokovic is not confirmed to compete in the US Open yet.
McEnroe reiterated that he personally is vaccinated but believes that Novak Djokovic’s refusal of the shots is his choice and shouldn’t affect his ability to compete in a Grand Slam.
A recent relaxation of health restrictions within the United States has ignited hope that Djokovic might be allowed into the country after all.
However, while the decision to relax travel restrictions is widely believed to be on the horizon it is clear that the US Open is not a priority for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Former British No 1 on whether Novak Djokovic should play at the US Open
The US Open has no restrictions on unvaccinated players but they have not sought to aid Djokovic in his bid to gain entry.
“It’s BS,” John McEnroe told Fox Digital.
“I think he should be allowed to play.
“My personal opinion is, I’ve been vaccinated, I’ve had a booster shot. That’s up to the individual.
“He’s won a lot more majors than me because he’s dug his heels in and found that will, that very few people in sport have ever found. That’s part of what made him so great, so he sticks to his guns.”
McEnroe said that the relaxation of internal restrictions and social distancing guidelines only add to the frustration surrounding the ban on unvaccinated travelers flying to the United States.
“He’s perfectly entitled to make his own decision,” added McEnroe. “The guy is one of the greatest athletes in any sport.
“He’s very careful about anything he puts in his body so it’s frustrating when I’m sitting here at an LAFC soccer game, and he’s not allowed in the country because he’s not vaccinated.
“It’s really unfortunate. But those are the rules we have with the government. I don’t agree with it so it’s ‘c’est la vie’ at the moment.”
After his Australian Open ordeal, Djokovic insists he will only travel to the United States when he is absolutely sure he will be allowed in.
“I’m not going to go to America if I don’t have permission. The Australian saga for me was not pleasant at all,” Djokovic said.
“I have my stance and I am a proponent for freedom to choose what is best for you. I respect everything and everybody, and I expect people to at least respect my decision.
“If I have permission, I’ll be there. If I don’t, I won’t be there – it’s not the end of the world.”
Latest
-
WTA Tour
Emma Raducanu suffers huge injury setback on the eve of Miami Open
Raducanu forced to make a tough decision ahead of WTA 1000 tournament in Miami.
-
Tennis News
Carlos Alcaraz hailed for ‘chasing Rafael Nadal’ by pundits as injury concern highlighted
“It adds to the quality of Alcaraz that he can play at this level at the age of 20.”
-
Tennis News
Miami Open draw: Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner learn their fate as Andy Murray gets enticing opener
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev and co. have learned their draws for 2024 Miami Open.
-
Tennis News
Tim Henman gives his verdict on Novak Djokovic’s ‘revealing’ Miami Open withdrawal
“It probably does lead a little bit more to speculation when you’re talking about your professional and personal life.”
-
Tennis News
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer compared to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi by legendary coach
“Rafa can do the same thing that Federer does, while Cristiano cannot do what Messi does.”
-
Tennis News
Martina Navratilova makes Novak Djokovic ‘doubt’ claim as she highlights age factor
“What happens when you get older is the bad days are worse. You have to have it (doubt) no matter what.”
-
WTA Tour
WTA Rankings: Dominant Iga Swiatek practically assured of big feat ahead of Roland Garros
This way for your post-Indian Wells WTA Rankings.
-
Tennis News
Andy Murray makes retirement uncertainty confession as he also opens up about one of his toughest losses
“I would want to be there by right,” says Andy Murray.
-
ATP Tour
ATP Rankings: Novak Djokovic 7.997 years at No 1, Carlos Alcaraz holds off Jannik Sinner, Luca Nardi +27
This way for your latest ATP Rankings.
-
Tennis Videos
WATCH: Carlos Alcaraz on THAT point against Daniil Medvedev – ‘Something happened to my feet’
“Points like this one give me extra motivation to put a smile on my face.”