Ace tennis star Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the upcoming U.S. Open due to the government’s strict policy vaccination policy for non-U.S. citizens.
The United States of America does not allow entry to foreign citizens who have not taken Covid-19 vaccines. The three-time U.S. Open champion from Serbia could not participate in Australia for the same reason and his insistence on not takings the shots will see him now miss out in yet another Grand Slam tournament.
“Novak Djokovic withdrew from the 2022 U.S. Open prior to the draw taking place this morning. The official seeding list is not determined until the draw is made. As the Qualifying Tournament has commenced, his withdrawal resulted in a Lucky Loser being included in the draw,” Stacey Allaster, Statement U.S. Open tournament director said in a statement.
“Novak is a great champion and it is very unfortunate that he will be unable to compete at the 2022 U.S. Open, as he is unable to enter the country due to the federal government’s vaccination policy for non-U.S. citizens. We look forward to welcoming Novak back at the 2023 US Open,” the statement further said.
Meanwhile, the Serb also took to Twitter to announce his decision to skip the hard-court tennis extravaganza.
“Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for U.S. Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support. 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,” he wrote on Twitter.
U.S. Open will take place from 29 August to 11 September this year. Recently in July, Novak Djokovic went past Roger Federer’s tally of 20 grand slam titles, clinching his 21st grand slam title after defeating Australia’s Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon men’s singles final.
He reached his fourth consecutive title.