Novak Djokovic has been dealt a blow by US Open organisers who confirmed their intention to follow the United States government's rules on the Covid vaccine.
The Wimbledon champion was named on the entry list for the final major of the year today, but that is routine, rather than an indication he will be allowed to play. However, as the 35-year-old is unvaccinated against Covid he will not be allowed to enter the USA due to his status.
The American Grand Slam have confirmed they will follow the government guidelines and Djokovic will not have the opportunity to compete for a record-equalling 22nd major title. A statement from the US Open, which does not have its own vaccination rules, read: "Per the Grand Slam Rule Book, all eligible players are automatically entered into the men's and women's singles main draw fields based on ranking 42 days prior to the first Monday of the event.
"The US Open does not have a vaccination mandate in place for players, but it will respect the US government's position regarding travel into the country for unvaccinated non-US citizens." Ahead of Wimbledon, the new 21-time Grand Slam champion reaffirmed his stance against talking the coronavirus jab.
"As of today, I am not allowed to enter the states under these circumstances," the Serbian tennis star said, via Eurosport. "I am aware of that and that is an extra motivation to do well here, and hopefully I can have a very good tournament as I have done in the last three editions.
"Then I will just have to wait and see. I would love to go to the States. But, as of today, that is not possible. There is not much I can do anymore. It is up to the US government to make a decision whether or not they allow the unvaccinated people to go into the country."
US immigration recently dropped the requirement for all incoming passengers to return a negative Covid test before boarding a plane, but maintained the need for proof of full vaccination to be presented on arrival.
“There are no plans to relax American immigration rules that require incoming travellers to have undergone vaccination for Covid," the Telegraph reported.
Canada also have similar restrictions in place, meaning Djokovic is also likely to miss the Canadian Open in Montreal. The tournament takes place shortly before the US Open and typically forms a key part of a player's preparation for Flushing Meadows.
When asked about Djokovic's potential involvement, Canadian Open director Eugene Lapierre said: "The situation is clear – either Canada will change the rules regarding vaccination or he [Djokovic] will have to roll up his sleeves and receive the vaccine."
