Novak Djokovic will not play at the first two Masters 1000 tournaments of the season due to his decision to not get a vaccination against COVID-19.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on Wednesday that he will not be playing at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and the Miami Open as he isn’t allowed to enter America at present. Under rules set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) international arrivals entering the country must be vaccinated against the disease unless they have a reason which qualifies for an exception. Something which Djokovic, who is a five-time champion in Indian Wells, doesn’t have.
“While I was automatically listed in the BNP Paribas Open and Miami Open draw I knew it would be unlikely I’d be able to travel. The CDC has confirmed that regulations won’t be changing so I won’t be able to play in the US,” Djokovic said in a statement on social media.
It is unclear as to when the Serbian was informed that he had no chance of entering America and why he didn’t confirm his withdrawal until a day after the men’s draw was completed. It is now possible that he could receive a small fine for a late withdrawal. However, this hasn’t been confirmed by officials.
Indian Wells tournament director James Blake admits it was against the odds that Djokovic would have been able to play in the event. Following the withdrawal, Grigor Dimitrov takes his place in the draw and a lucky loser will take Dimitrov’s previous spot.
“We understood from the beginning that Novak’s participation at the Miami Open was determinant on his early entry into the United States, which we knew would be a long shot,” said Blake.
“We have an incredibly deep and talented player field and look forward to hosting a great event.”
According to an ATP spokesman, Djokovic is the only member of the top 100 not to have had some form of vaccination. His stance on the matter resulted in a high-profile legal battle with Australian authorities over his visa back in January which resulted in him getting deported from the country following two court hearings within a week.
During an interview with the BBC, the 34-year-old says he is cautious about what he injects into his body and has expressed concerns about the potential long-term effect the COVID-19 vaccination could have on his body. Even though it has been given the all clear by the World Health Organization.
“The principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else,” he said.
“I’m trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can.”
It is likely that Djokovic will return to action next month at the Monte Carlo Masters.
