Indian Wells organizers said on Tuesday that Novak Djokovic had been included in the tournament’s draw, but it was unclear whether the Serb would be allowed to enter the United States.
Novak Djokovic slotted into Indian Wells draw, unclear if he can enter the US (Reuters Photo)
HIGHLIGHTS
- Novak Djokovic was included in the tournament draw
- Djokovic’s participation status in the tournament is still unclear
- The California tournament is expected to welcome a full house
World No. 2 Novak Djokovic will be taking part in the draw in Indian Wells, organizers confirmed, but his participation status in the Masters 1000 tournament is still unclear.
“Novak Djokovic is on the list of participants for the tournament and will therefore be included in the draw today. We are currently in communication with his team; however, it has not yet been determined if he will attend the event by obtaining CDC approval to enter the country,” Indian Wells said in a statement.
The CDC website noted on March 3 that non-US citizens who are not immigrants must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to travel to the United States by air.
Djokovic was unable to attend the Australian Open after immigration authorities arrested him on January 6, leading to a legal roller coaster ride over the country’s COVID-19 entry requirements that resulted in his visa being canceled later that month.
The California tournament, often referred to as tennis’ “fifth major,” is set to welcome a full house after being canceled in 2020 and postponed to October last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The women’s first round begins on Wednesday and the men’s on Thursday.
With former world number one Roger Federer eliminated from the tournament as he recovers from knee surgery and Djokovic previously considered absent, Spaniard Rafa Nadal has been widely favored after winning the Australian Open in January, the 22nd Grand Slam -Renew titles of men. Djokovic last competed in Dubai in February, where he lost to Czech Jiri Vesely in the quarterfinals.
