Novak Djokovic is likely to face more obstacles in the near future concerning his calendar if he remains unvaccinated against COVID-19 with his participation in the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters in doubt.
The world No.1 is yet to play a tournament this season following a dramatic dispute he had with Australian authorities over his visa to play in the country. The tennis star had his visa cancelled twice and ended up getting deported from the country after the government used their executive powers which was backed by the federal court. Djokovic argued that whilst he is not vaccinated against the virus, he was told by tennis Australia that recent infection of the virus would qualify him for a medical exemption. However, border officials deemed that as insufficient criteria for a visa.
Djokovic is yet to break his silence on the matter but has recently said that he intends to do so in the coming days. There is mounting speculation over whether he will have the vaccine considering the problems he could encounter with regards to international travel. Next month’s BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells is only open to those who are fully vaccinated. Keeping in line with the United States government who requires all international visitors to be vaccinated prior to arrival.
Now a warning has been issued by the director of the Monte Carlo Masters which is the first major clay event which will take place in April. Zeljko Franulovic says he is unsure if the Serbian will be allowed to play in his event due to France’s use of vaccine passports which allows individuals to visit certain places.
“If he meets the health requirements of the French government, we will be happy to host him,” Eurosport quoted Franulovic as telling reporters during a press conference on Thursday.
“He has to be in order. For the moment, as far as I know, he is not vaccinated. As soon as he is in good health with respect to government regulations, we will welcome him with open arms.”
Andrea Guadenzi, who is the chairman of the ATP, was also present at the presentation. Questioned about Djokovic, the Italian said he, ‘hopes’ to see him play in Monte Carlo but didn’t get drawn into any speculation.
“We want to see Novak happy and healthy, and we want to see him play. We want the best players for the best tournaments and Monte Carlo is one of them. It’s one of the most important events on the calendar,” said Gaudenzi.
“Hopefully, we’ll get a full house. We hope to leave Covid behind us as soon as possible. Honestly, we are hearing good news. We may be seeing the end of the tunnel. We’re moving in the right direction to put this terrible pandemic behind us.”
It is understood that Djokovic is set to return to competitive tennis next week at the Dubai Tennis Championships. The UAE allows unvaccinated people to enter providing they have a negative COVID-19 test.
