Tennis-Djokovic included in entry list for Indian Wells

Novak Djokovic, who was deported from Australia due to his COVID-19 vaccination status ahead of the Australian Open, is on the entry list for next month’s Indian Wells ATP event in California, tournament organizers said on Wednesday.

The 34-year-old Serb, who has not been vaccinated, was deported after an 11-day rollercoaster that included two visa cancellations, two court challenges and five nights over two stays at an immigration detention hotel where asylum seekers were held. is kept.

Djokovic has won Indian Wells five times and was part of a stacked ground announced on Wednesday, featuring 2022 Australian Open winner Rafael Nadal and top 10 players Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Tournament organizers said in a statement that valid proof of complete vaccination would be required to enter the venue. The Indian Wells tournament runs from March 9-20.

“The Guidelines for Players are governed by protocols established by the WTA and ATP, as well as any restrictions established by the United States with respect to the vaccination status of international travelers entering the country,” the organizers said.

Djokovic may also have had trouble arriving in the United States, as foreign air travelers had to be fully vaccinated from November last year and proof before boarding flights, with limited exceptions.

He is set to return at the ATP 500 Dubai Tennis Championships, which will take place from February 21-26.

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