The US Open, which is set to begin on August 29, has banned Novak Djokovic from participating due to his vaccination status
Novak Djokovic hasn’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 and he is likely to miss the entire North American hard court swing. Canada and the United States require foreigners to show proof of vaccination upon entering the respective countries and Djokovic doesn’t have one to show. Renowned radio talk show host Charlie Kirk is the latest individual to lash out at the US government on this issue.
The US Open has also ruled out seeking an exemption for any player, making Djokovic’s participation at Flushing Meadows this year impossible unless the entry rules to the US and the state of New York change. Kirk finds it bemusing that “millions of unvaccinated illegals” enter the country through the US southern border while Djokovic can’t compete in New York.
Djokovic is a three-time champion in New York. He made the fourth round last year but was disqualified after unintentionally hitting a lineswoman in his match against Pablo Carreno Busta.
Novak Djokovic continues to be rigid on his stance regarding vaccination
After winning his 21st Grand Slam title at this past Wimbledon, Djokovic was asked whether he would take the vaccine ahead of the US Open. Djokovic confirmed that he does not plan on taking the vaccine and said he won’t try to force entry into any country.
“I’m not vaccinated and I’m not planning to get vaccinated, so the only good news I can have is them removing the mandated green vaccine card or whatever you call it to enter the United States, or exemption”, said Djokovic. The Serbian further added, “I don’t think an exemption is realistically possible. I’ll wait for some good news from the US because I would really love to go there.”
However, it seems unlikely that Djokovic will get an exemption from the US Government. After missing out on multiple tournaments including the Australian Open, Miami Open, and the Indian Wells earlier this year, Djokovic will now likely also be kept out of the Canada Masters and US Open.
More Tennis News
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- Novak Djokovic’s brother makes Roger Federer promise ahead of Serbian Open
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