Novak Djokovic is set to miss the Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami for the second straight year after the United States extended its requirement for foreign visitors to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
Proof of vaccination will be necessary for the likes of Djokovic, who has steadfastly refusedto get the jab, to enter the country until at least April 10. Indian Wells and the Miami Open – two of tennis’s most prestigious tournaments outside the grand slams – begin on March 6 and 20, respectively. Djokovic missed them both last year, as well as the US Open, due to the US’s Covid-19 rules.
The former world No 1 was also thrown out of Australia ahead of the Australian Open after attempting to enter the country without being vaccinated. A three-year ban on him returning there was lifted in November and he is currently in Adelaide preparing for this month’s first grand slam of the year.
On Wednesday, he beat Constant Lestienne to reach the second round of the Adelaide International. Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open titles and heads into this year’s tournament just one grand slam title shy of Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22.
Last year’s event saw Nadal claim his 21st major when Djokovic was thrown out of the country after being detained and held at an immigration hotel.
Speaking last week about his ordeal, the Serb said: “You can’t forget those events. It’s one of these things that sticks with you, it stays with you for I guess the rest of your life. It was something that I’ve never experienced before, and hopefully never again.”
After withdrawing from the US Open in August, Djokovic wrote on social media: “Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support. Good luck to my fellow players! I’ll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again. See you soon tennis world!”
