Novak Djokovic finds place in entry list for Indian Wells Masters despite mandatory vaccine guideline

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was named in the entry list of Indian Wells Masters, scheduled to be held in March in California, tournament organisers said. Djokovic was deported from Australia over his Covid-19 vaccination status of the Australian Open 2022 as he was not able to defend his title.

The 34-year-old Serb, who is unvaccinated, was reported from Australia last month after he took to the court challenging the initial cancellation of his visa by the Australian government over lack of evidence for Covid-19 exemption. Djokovic argued that he had contracted Covid in December last year and took the legal route to quash the cancellation of his visa only to be deported after the Australian immigration minister used his special powers to cancel the visa again.

Djokovic could have trouble even getting into the United States, because foreign air travellers have had to be fully vaccinated since November last year and provide proof before boarding flights, with limited exceptions, according to Reuters news agency.

Tournament organisers said in a statement that valid proof of full vaccination would be required for entry into the venue. The Indian Wells tournament runs from March 9-20.

“The guidelines for the players are governed by the protocols established by … the WTA and ATP, as well as any restrictions established by the United States of America in regard to the vaccination status of international travellers entering the country,” organisers added.

Djokovic has won Indian Wells five times and was part of a stacked field announced on Wednesday, which includes 2022 Australian Open winner Rafael Nadal and top 10 players Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

He is scheduled to return to action at the ATP 500 Dubai Tennis Championships, which will take place between Feb. 21-26.