Novak Djokovic at centre of United States visa controversy as Indian Wells make statement | Tennis | Sport
Novak Djokovic has been included in the draw for this month’s two-week event at Indian Wells amid questions over whether he will be allowed to enter the United States in order to participate in the tournament. The Serb is set to face either David Goffin or Jordan Thompson in his first match on Saturday as he looks to bounce back from his Australian Open saga with an impressive showing on the other side of the Atlantic.
However, his refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19 may once again have significant implications with regards to his eligibility to play later this week.
Djokovic was prevented from taking part in this year’s Australian Open when he was deported from the country on the eve of the tournament back in January.
It seems that he could also face similar issues in trying to enter the US after it was revealed that he is yet to receive confirmation over whether he will be allowed to travel.
A statement from Indian Wells organisers read: “Novak Djokovic is on the tournament entry list, and therefore is placed into the draw today.
“We are currently in communication with his team; however, it has not been determined if he will participate in the event by getting CDC approval to enter the country.”
The CDC website as of March 3 indicated that non-US citizens who are not immigrants must show proof of vaccination against Covid to travel into the country by air.
Tournament officials have also taken steps to clarify that all players will need to be fully vaccinated in order to gain entry to the venue in California.
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