Grigor Dimitrov Joao Sousa Make Big Moves in the Indian Wells Draw Following the Withdrawal of Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic pulls out of the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells and the ATP Masters 1000 Maimi after being denied entry into the United States of America. The step comes in after the CDC confirmed that they are not willing to amend the rules and that the Serb cannot enter the country without being vaccinated. Djokovic has just played one tournament since the start of this season. Following this withdrawal, the former World No. 1 is now expected to make a comeback at Monte Carlo Masters in April.

Following the withdrawal of Novak Djokovic, what are the changes in the Indian Wells Draw?

Also Read- ‘Should Have Been off the Circuit for Several Months’ – Tennis Legend Chris Evert Not Happy With ATP’s Decision on Alexander Zverev

Major movers in the Indian Wells Draw

Even though Novak seems disappointed with his withdrawal, that is not the case with Grigor Dimitrov. The Bulgarian initially placed in the draw as an unseeded player is now the 33rd seed, and will replace Djokovic in the bottom spot of the draw. Moreover, Dimitrov, who initially had to start his tournament campaign from the first round, will receive a first-round bye. In the second round, he will face the winner of David Goffin and Jordan Thompson.

Following Dimitrov’s move, qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin has now been placed at Dimitrov’s initial position in the draw. He will start his campaign facing World No. 39, American player Tommy Paul. The winner of the two will face the 3rd seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round.

Watch this story- Will Smith Shows How King Richard Cast Trained Like Serena and Venus Williams

Djokovic’s withdrawal has not just benefitted Grigor Dimitrov but also the World No. 85, Joao Sousa. The Portuguese has entered the main draw as the lucky loser and will start his tournament campaign against Spain’s Pedro Martinez. The winner of the two will face the 12th seeded Cameron Norrie in the second round of the tournament.

How has the vaccination stand of Novak Djokovic affected him?

Novak Djokovic has been firm on his stand of not getting vaccinated. In a recent interview, the Serbian also asserted that he is willing to give up on tournaments for his stand. The 20-time Grand Slam champion faced a mighty issue in Melbourne at the start of the year. Djokovic arrived in Melbourne to defend his Australian Open title. However, he not only had to pull out from the Major but also was deported from the country owing to his vaccination status.

Facing a delay at the start of the season, Djokovic finally kicked off his 2022 season in Dubai, eyeing his 6th title. However, his run came to a halt when he suffered a loss in the quarterfinal against the qualifier Jiri Vesely. As a mandatory event, Djokovic found his name in the draw at Indian Wells Masters. However, being unvaccinated, Djokovic cannot enter the United States and will not feature at the Sunshine Double.