Novak Djokovic says he has no regrets about not playing at this year’s US Open during a season where he has missed two Grand Slam tournaments due to being unvaccinated against Covid-19.
The Serbian tennis giant hasn’t played a competitive match since winning the Wimbledon title in July after he wasn’t allowed entry into North America. Under guidelines set out by the American government, all visitors are required to be vaccinated unless they qualify for a special exemption which Djokovic did not. It was only the second time he has missed the event since making his debut back in 2005. He didn’t play the New York major in 2017 due to injury.
Despite missing out on a chance to win a record-equalling 22nd major title, the former world No.1 stands by his decision. Djokovic, who was deported from Australia earlier this year due to his vaccination status, has previously expressed concerns about the potential effects the injection could have on his body. Even though it has been deemed safe by the World Health Organization (WHO).
“No, I don’t have any regrets,” Djokovic told reporters ahead of Laver Cup in London. “I mean, I do feel sad that I wasn’t able to play, but, you know, that was a decision that I made.
“I knew what the consequences will be, so I accepted them. That’s it.”
In his absence, 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz triumphed at the US Open to become the youngest player in ATP rankings history to reach the top of the standings. Djokovic lost his only meeting against the Spaniard in three tight sets earlier this year at the Madrid Open.
“I congratulate Alcaraz for winning the US Open. He did it in an incredible fashion, in three or four five-set matches in the tournament and he’s 19 years old and already number one in the world. It’s quite amazing what he has achieved so far. I think he’s a great addition to our sport, a great star in making.” He commented.
Djokovic will return to action this weekend at the Laver Cup which will be the last event rival Roger Federer will play in his career. He has also entered to play a tournament in Tel Aviv, Israel, later this month before ending his season in Europe.
As for next year, the 35-year-old is still waiting to see if he will be allowed back into Australia. Due to his deportation from the country, he was hit with a three-year ban from re-entering. However, the Prime minister at the time, Scott Morrison, said it is possible the ban could be overturned.
“I’m waiting for the news,” Djokovic said of the topic. “It’s really not in my hands right now. I’m hoping I can get some positive news soon.”
Djokovic is currently ranked seventh in the world.
