21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic says he is not giving up on his hopes of playing at next month’s US Open despite currently being banned from entering the country.
The former world No.1 is unable to travel to America as he is not vaccinated against COVID-19. A mandatory requirement for all foreign travelers entering America unless they qualify for a special exemption. Following his win over Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon final, Djokovic reiterated that he does not intend to get jabbed despite his place at the Grand Slam event being in jeopardy.
The Serbian’s stance on the vaccine resulted in him being deported from Australia following two high-profile legal hearings earlier this year. During an interview with the BBC shortly after his deportation, Djokovic explained the reason why he doesn’t want to be vaccinated was because he had reservations about the possible impact it could have on his body. Even though it has been given the all clear by the World Health Organization.
Providing an update on Saturday, Djokovic stated that it is training as usual for him despite the current circumstances.
“I am preparing as if I will be allowed to compete, while I await to hear if there is any room for me to travel to US. Fingers crossed!” He wrote on Instagram.
Organizers at the US Open have previously said in a statement that they ‘respect’ the rules of their government but do not have their own policy regarding the topic. Meaning that American players who are unvaccinated will be allowed to participate in the tournament.
An online petition of Change.org has received thousands of signatures calling for Djokovic to be allowed to play at Flushing Meadows. As of July 31st, there have been more than 44,000 signatures.
“I just wanted to take a moment and say to all of you how grateful I am to see so many messages of support and love from all around the world these days,” said Djokovic.
“I wasn’t expecting it, and that’s why it feels so mindblowing. Just wanted to say THANK YOU. It feels special that people connect with my tennis career in such a loving and supportive way and wish for me to continue to compete.”
Djokovic is a three-time champion at the US Open and has reached the final on six other occasions. Since making his debut in 2005, the only time he missed the tournament was in 2017 due to an elbow injury.
