Novak Djokovic set to miss Indian Wells and Miami Open after United States extends Covid vaccine rules

Novak Djokovic looks set to miss Indian Wells and the Miami Open again after United States travel authorities extended the requirement for non-US nationals to be vaccinated.

While many countries around the world have relaxed Covid rules, the US have confirmed proof of vaccination will be required for entry until April 10.

The Sunshine Swing events at Indian Wells and the Miami Open, two of the most prestigious events on the tennis calendar, start on March 6 and March 20 respectively.

The Djokovic saga grabbed headlines across the world in January 2022 after the Serb touched down for the opening Grand Slam of the year unvaccinated but with a medical exemption. His initial visa was cancelled, re-approved by a judge, then revoked again by Australian immigration minister Alex Hawke.

His frustration was compounded when his great rival Rafael Nadal won the title in Melbourne to move clear in the Grand Slam race. Nadal then claimed the French Open before Djokovic won Wimbledon to leave the Spaniard 22-21 ahead in their enthralling major duel.

“I was never against vaccination,” he said. “I understand that globally, everyone is trying to put a big effort into handling this virus and seeing, hopefully, an end soon to this virus.

“Vaccination is probably the biggest effort. I fully respect that. But I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put into your body. For me, that is essential, it’s really the principle of understanding what is right and what is wrong for you.

“Me as an elite professional athlete, I’ve always carefully reviewed, assessed everything that comes in from supplements, food, water, anything that comes into my body as a fuel. Based on all the information that I got, I decided against the vaccine.”

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