Novak Djokovic, the legendary Serbian, maybe soon granted an exemption to enter the US. He may be permitted to play in the upcoming Indian Wells and Miami Open tournaments. This speculation has stirred controversy among fans and commentators alike.
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The US tennis association has tweeted its hope that Djokovic will be able to compete. However, some fans have responded with frustration, and are questioning why the Serb should be given special treatment.
Fans irked by the special treatment of Novak Djokovic
Djokovic and his vaccination stance has created complications, especially when it comes to traveling and competing in countries with strict vaccine protocols for international travelers. The US falls under this category as it has a vaccine mandate in place for foreign visitors. It has prompted Djokovic to apply for an exemption on medical grounds.
Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen. The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami.
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) March 3, 2023
The official page of the US Open tweeted, “Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen. The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami.”
This situation raises several questions. Some fans have also questioned why Djokovic is so eager to compete in these tournaments. Indeed, the Serbian legend has already achieved a great deal in his career. However, for the ‘Djoker’, the opportunity to compete in Indian Wells and Miami is undoubtedly a big deal.
READ MORE- “There is a lot of Ambiguity”: Novak Djokovic on Tennis Tour’s Vaccine Protocols
A fan was eager to tweet out, ” And when Serena was cheated at the US Open y’all didn’t say anything….”
And when Serena was cheated at the US Open y’all didn’t say anything…. https://t.co/iDIQOpvH3z
— Bence (@hBencee) March 3, 2023
Another issue that has been raised is the question of fairness. Some fans have pointed out that other players who have been unable to compete due to vaccine mandates have not received the same level of sympathy as Djokovic. Here are such fan reactions from Twitter users-
If the vaccine mandate will be lifted in May, why can't he wait until then? If he is the GOAT, what does he need to prove during the sunshine double? Is he poor or something? https://t.co/5Bkb2jX4IC
— Hannah (@hannah_hbic) March 4, 2023
I hate this! Celebrities and sport's stars shouldn't get special treatment. Either everyone is allowed into the country or ALL unvaccinated people are banned. Simple as that. If Novak is tiven special treatment that would be wrong imo. 🤷 https://t.co/8ODHMhlZTx
— Siobhan 🇬🇬 (@slinehan1) March 3, 2023
what happened to rules are rules🤷♀️ yet all 4 grand slams were so quick to jump on banning Naomi for not attending press conferences https://t.co/Wl59aEKpLg
— Kat (@idontmindk) March 3, 2023
Oh…it’s a no for me https://t.co/6fLH2NgJIN
— Casey Schnabel (@CaseyTennis) March 3, 2023
Djokovic is a highly influential figure in the tennis world, and his situation has broader implications for the sport as a whole. The French government recently made an announcement stating that the vaccine pass would be lifted for all individuals from March 14th onward.
What a cringe tweet indeed https://t.co/HJuax0Pk6w
— Rafa (@RafaPN84) March 3, 2023
Or maybe he could just follow the rules like every other person wishing to enter the US? Can’t believe the @usopen & @MiamiOpen have both just suggested that being good at tennis should make Djokovic exempt from the law! https://t.co/0bhbL95TEP
— Alex W.R Grant (@Alexgmanutd98) March 4, 2023
The controversy has shone a light on some important issues related to COVID-19 and the world of professional tennis. Some fans have criticized him for promoting anti-vaccination views and potentially putting himself and others at risk, while others have praised him for standing up for his beliefs and personal autonomy.
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Djokovic once defended and explained his stance on vaccination
In 2022, ‘Nole’ explained that his issue with vaccines is when someone tries to force him to put something into his body that he does not want. He expressed that this is unacceptable to him. Djokovic emphasized that he meant no disrespect toward the health workers who are saving lives around the world.
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He clarified that he is not in a position to speak about vaccines since there are individuals who have dedicated their lives to the field of medicine. Djokovic wanted to make it clear that he is not against all types of vaccines.
Do you want to see Djokovic competing in the ‘Sunshine Doubles’? Let us know in the comments below.