Novak Djokovic forced out of Indian Wells ATP Tournament after US denies him visa
World number one Novak Djokovic has officially withdrawn from the ATP tournament, BNP Paribas Open, after failing to secure a COVID-19 vaccine waiver and a US visa.
The Serbian applied for special permission to participate in the ATP Masters events at Indian Wells and Miami, which was denied as the US bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country.
Djokovic’s absence is a huge setback for the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, as he would have been a heavy favourite to win his sixth Indian Wells title.
Djokovic’s Visa row with US government
Djokovic’s visa application had been pending for a month before his withdrawal on Sunday, causing much frustration for the tennis star. He is among the high-profile athletes who have refused to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and as such, is currently barred from entering the US.
His application for a waiver to play in the two ATP Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami was denied due to US government policies. Djokovic has previously stated that he would rather skip Grand Slams than have a COVID shot.
Statement from tournament organisers
Following Djokovic’s withdrawal, tournament organisers released a statement confirming Nikoloz Basilashvili’s inclusion in the field. They expressed disappointment at the absence of the Serbian tennis star from the tournament, who has not competed in the back-to-back ATP Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami since 2019.
As of writing, no one from Djokovic’s team has issued an official statement regarding the withdrawal. It is unclear whether the tennis star will continue to seek vaccination waivers and a US visa to play in other tournaments scheduled in the US later this year.
Support for Djokovic
Tennis enthusiasts around the world have expressed their support for Djokovic, with many lamenting his absence from the tournament. Tournament director Tommy Haas, the United States Tennis Association, and the U.S. Open are among those who had been hoping that the 22-time Grand Slam champion would be allowed to enter the US.
The wait for Djokovic’s fans continues, as he misses out on yet another opportunity to increase his Grand Slam record. The US government is expected to lift its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11, potentially allowing unvaccinated foreigners to enter the country. It remains to be seen whether Djokovic will be able to play in other scheduled tournaments in the US this year.
