Novak Djokovic, the 21-time major winner and former world no.1, withdrew from the US Open due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and his unvaccinated status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s policy of not allowing unvaccinated non-American citizens into the country did not change before the start of the US Open. It meant that the legendary Serb would miss his second Grand Slam tournament this season after the Australian Open, earlier this year.
Djokovic stated that his refusal to receive the Covid-19 vaccination prevented him from traveling to New York for the US Open. According to current regulations, travelers must present proof of complete vaccination to enter the United States.
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Novak Djokovic fans protested outside Arthur Ashe Stadium
On Monday, a group of protestors expressed their frustration outside the courts in New York. A man with a microphone was rallying the public. He was saying, “It makes no sense! Stand with Novak! Why are we still closed? Why is the US still closed? Where is Novak?”
"Why are we still closed? why is the US still closed? Where is Novak?" protester shouts at the crowds walking into the US Open today.
Protest outside US Open in Queens, NY for Novak Djokovic – "End All Travel Mandates"
Video by Steve Sanchez (FNTV https://t.co/MKhP0Go9IL) pic.twitter.com/wLTXOYlrJu
— Oliya Scootercaster (@ScooterCasterNY) August 29, 2022
A group of Djokovic supporters protested outside the Arthur Ashe Stadium, pressuring the US government to revoke the vaccine travel mandate.
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The Serb was compelled to withdraw from the tournament as proof of vaccination was mandatory for non-US citizens. Fans displayed banners urging the US government to lift the travel restrictions immediately.
US Open’s statement on Djokovic
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Novak Djokovic’s decision to withdraw from the US Open was regarded “unfortunate” by the USTA. However, they expressed their hope that he would return to Flushing Meadows the following year.
via Getty
TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 31: Novak Djokovic of Team Serbia looks on during his Men’s Singles Bronze Medal match against Pablo Carreno Busta of Team Spain on day eight of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Ariake Tennis Park on July 31, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Amin Mohammad Jamali/Getty Images)
In a statement, Stacey Allaster, the director of the US Open, said: “Novak is a great champion and it is very unfortunate that he will be unable to compete at the 2022 US Open, as he is unable to enter the country due to the federal government’s vaccination policy for non-U.S.citizens. We look forward to welcoming Novak back at the 2023 US Open.“
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What do you think about the USTA’s claims?
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