Novak Djokovic set to miss two events as US issue fresh vaccine requirements

04 January 2023 , 14:22

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Novak Djokovic's tennis schedule is set to be interrupted once again (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Novak Djokovic is set to miss Indian Wells and the Miami Open once again after the United States extended the requirement for non-US citizens to be vaccinated.

Djokovic 's ongoing refusal to be vaccinated is set to cost him the chance to compete at the two prestigious tournaments in March, with proof of the jab against Covid required to enter the US until at least April 10.

The Serbian legend was at the centre of a global media storm 12 months ago after he was detained in an immigration hotel and deported on the eve of last year's Australian Open due to his vaccination status.

But Djokovic has returned Down Under before the first Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park after his three-year initial ban from the country was revoked in November. And he has been able to assume a normal schedule with many countries relaxing or totally removing their vaccination rules in recent months.

However, the ruling from the US travel authorities represents a serious blow for the 21-time Grand Slam champion, who will be unable to compete in two of the biggest events on the tennis calendar for a second consecutive season.

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Djokovic, who also missed the US Open at Flushing Meadows last year, is a five-time champion at Indian Wells, an eminent event that gets under way on March 6.

And Djokovic is set to be absent for a crucial juncture in the season as the biggest names in tennis head to the Miami Open for the following tournament that is scheduled to begin on March 19.

Djokovic was deported on the eve of last year's Australian Open over his vaccination status (Getty Images)

For now, the world No 5 will be fully focused on claiming a tenth Australian Crown and equalling Rafael Nadal's tally of 22 Grand Slam titles.

He has eased through to the second round of the Adelaide International, which serves as a final warm up for his most successful slam, starting on January 17.

But the extension of the vaccine requirement in the US casts further doubt over whether he will be able to make a return to the US Open in August.

Djokovic will not only miss out on the chance to secure crucial ranking points as he bids to cement his status back as the world's number one ranked player, but his absence could also hinder preparations for the French Open at Roland Garros in April.

Ben Parsons