Novak Djokovic won't play 2022 US Open due to vaccination status

Arsh Das

Aug 26

Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he won't be playing the 2022 US Open. All foreigners that enter the country need to provide proof that they have taken at least two coronavirus vaccine doses.

Due to his decisions to avoid the vaccine altogether, he will not be allowed to enter the USA, and will miss out on the competition. Earlier this year, he was deported from Australia due to vaccination reasons, and was not allowed to play the Australian Open either.

Novak Djokovic to miss out on the US Open

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the US Open after refusing to be vaccinated against COVID-19, making him unable to enter the United States.

Djokovic remained in the event until Thursday morning but officially announced he would not be travelling to New York to compete. pic.twitter.com/Fip03MzGAh

— 10 News First Melbourne (@10NewsFirstMelb) August 25, 2022

After winning the 2022 Wimbledon Championship, the Serbian noted that he would not be allowed to play the US Open. And with no change in the health policies, his fear has been confirmed.

"Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support," Novak Djokovic tweeted.

"Good luck to my fellow players! I'll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again. See you soon tennis world!"

"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-US citizens," tournament director Stacey Allaster said in the statement. "We look forward to welcoming Novak back at the 2023 US Open."

The 35-year-old will be in Valencia to face Carlos Alcaraz in the opening game of the Davis Cup.