Due to the extension of the vaccination requirement for non-US citizens, Novak Djokovic will once again miss Indian Wells and the Miami Open. Although many nations have loosened or eliminated coronavirus regulations, proof of immunisation is still required to enter the US until at least April 10.
The start dates for two of the most prestigious tournaments outside of the grand slams, Indian Wells and the Miami Open are respectively March 6 and March 20.
When Djokovic first arrived in Australia a year ago, he was held in an immigration hotel because he had refused to get immunised. The immigration minister later cancelled Djokovic’s visa because he believed his presence might inflame anti-vaccine sentiment, and the 21-time grand slam champion was then deported. Read More: Novak Djokovic acknowledges that he “can’t forget” what it was like to be expelled from Australia
With the removal of the requirement for Covid-19 vaccination, Djokovic was able to successfully challenge a three-year ban on applying for a visa and began his season this week in Adelaide.
Djokovic said in a statement prior to his departure that although he would carry the pain of his deportation with him for the rest of his life, he was glad to return to Australia and compete for a tenth Australian Open championship.
What did Novak Djokovic say?
“You can’t forget those events,” he said. “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.
“But it is a valuable life experience for me. I have to move on. Coming back to Australia speaks how I feel about this country, how I feel about playing here.
“I was really hoping that I’m going to have my permission back to get back into Australia and play here because it’s a country where I’ve had tremendous success in my career.
“I always felt great in Australia. And always played my best tennis, received a lot of support. Hopefully I can have another great summer.”
With an easy victory at the Adelaide International to kick off the new year, Novak Djokovic extended his winning singles streak in Australia to 30 games. To start his 2024 singles season, Djokovic easily defeated France’s Constant Lestienne 6-3, 6-2 at the Adelaide International 1. Read More: Novak Djokovic receives a warm welcome after winning the singles opener at the Adelaide International 1
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