Novak Djokovic said he was resigned on Thursday that he might miss more tournaments in the United States this season due to his refusal to get a coronavirus shot.
The former world number 1 is expected to miss the prestigious tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami after the American authorities have planned to extend in time the obligation for international visitors to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
"I've seen it, but I don't think it's official yet, so when it's official we can talk about it," the Serbian, 21-time Grand Slam winner, said in Adelaide where he qualified Thursday for the quarter-finals of this preparation tournament for the Australian Open.
Bad news for Djokovic!
đź‘€ The US Transportation Administration has extended its entry ban for non-vaccinated foreigners until April 9th.
He should therefore not be able to play in Indian Wells and Miami!
© ZUMA / Panoramic pic.twitter.com/sUdTBl3VmG
— Tennis Magazine (@TennisMagazine1) January 4, 2023
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"You know my position, so that's it," he replied when reporters at a press conference referred to this recent statement by the US Transportation Security Administration ( ASD).
"I hope I can play, but if I can't go, I can't go," the 35-year-old added.
Ranking implications
The TSA has reportedly decided to extend the ban on unvaccinated non-US citizens from entering the United States until April, with the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells taking place from March 6 to 19 and that of Miami from March 19 to April 2.
Last year, Djokovic was unable to participate in American tournaments, including Indian Wells and Miami in the spring, and the US Open in late August due to his vaccination status.
With 4,820 points in the ATP ranking, the Serb slipped to 5th place in the world.
In the event of a double package, Djokovic would give up on the 2,000 points promised to the winner of the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments.
The Belgrade native won back-to-back titles in 2011, 2014, 2015 and 2016.
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Tennis
Novak Djokovic
Covid vaccine
Covid-19
UNITED STATES
Sport