Former world number one Novak Djokovic will miss the U.S. Open after announcing on Thursday that he would be unable to go to New York for the competition due to his refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccination.
To board flights to and enter the United States, travellers must now provide evidence of a complete immunisation.
The Serbian reportedly said that he was willing to skip Grand Slam events that require players to be COVID 19 vaccinated.
“Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open,” Djokovic wrote on Twitter.
“Good luck to my fellow players! I’ll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again.”
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Djokovic was on the entrance list for the New York event from August 29 to September 11.
This year, the 35-year-old was also unable to defend his Australian Open title since he was deported from the country due to his lack of vaccinations.
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) termed Djokovic’s absence as “unfortunate” but anticipated his return to Flushing Meadows the following year.