Novak Djokovic had hoped the CDC would change the rules and allow him to travel, but confirmation received by the Serbian means that he has withdrawn from the upcoming Masters events.
Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from Indian Wells & Miami
The Serbian had been automatically entered to both tournaments due to his ranking. However, Djokovic believed that he would be unable to travel. Due to the rules implimented by the CDC the former World #1 understood it was unlikely he would make the journey.
Djokovic, who made headlines in January when detained and deported from Australia, is unvaccinated. However, as more countries are reviewing their entry requirements, the Serbian was relying on the CDC doing the same. But for Djokovic to travel to the USA, the Serbian needs to be fully vaccinated. Also, the former World #1 must provide proof of a negative test result, or documentation proving recovery from Covid-19. Djokovic took to social media to announce the news.
While I was automatically listed in the @BNPPARIBASOPEN and @MiamiOpen 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. Good luck to those playing in these great tournaments 👊
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 9, 2022
Consequences
What does this mean for the Serbian? It’s another two events that Djokovic misses. Although not specifically anti vaccination, the Serbian has not had any of the COVID-19 jabs. Djokovic told the BBC last month, “I was never against vaccination. But I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body.
“Because the principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else. I’m trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can.”
He also confirmed he would be willing to miss further tournaments in order to defend his beliefs. The Serbian now drops out of the draw, Grigor Dimitrov takes the Djokovic spot, and a lucky loser moves into the remaining spot. However, had Djokovic withdrawn earlier, before qualifying started, another player could have moved into the qualifying draw.
With Djokovic out, Rafael Nadal and other favorites see their chances in the tournament increase. Nadal and Daniil Medvedev look once again on a collision course in a high-stakes match.
Main Photo from Getty.
