US Department of Homeland Security denies Djokovic's vaccine waiver request

Novak Djokovic still not cleared to play in the US

TENNIS US Department of Homeland Security denies Djokovic's vaccine waiver request

Funmilayo Fameso 10:17 - 04.03.2023

Novak Djokovic's hopes of playing at the Indiana Wells and Miami Open is still not decided as US senator waits on President's Joe Biden's response.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has denied Novak Djokovic's vaccine waiver request, making him ineligible to enter the country and play at the Indiana Wells and Miami Open.

Sequel to this, US Florida Senator Rick Scott had written a letter to the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, as he requested he waived the current vaccine mandate for international travelers entering the country from the Serbian star player.

Senator Rick Scott's letter to President Joe Biden on Novak Djokovic

Although President Biden hasn't responded, the DHS has declared its stand on the issue.

Djokovic's request to play at the Masters tournament

Last month, the 22 Grand Slam winner had submitted all necessary documentation requesting to enter the United States and play at the Indiana Wells and Miami Open, his brother Djordje Djokovic told Serbian news agency Tanjug.

Djokovic is currently the world No.1 tennis player

The top seed was stopped from playing at the Australian and US Open Grand Slams last year due to his Covid-19 vaccination status not taking the vaccine - a vital pass for entering both countries.

Though he's still yet to take the vaccine, he was allowed o play in Australia this year where he won the title, but there are still restrictions to unvaccinated foreigners entering the United States.

Djokovic at age 35 is the third oldest player to win the Australian Open title

"Unfortunately, it is something that is out of our hands," Djordje told Tanjug.

"Novak needs to get a special permission to enter, considering that the USA still doesn't let unvaccinated foreigners into the country, which is unbelievable, considering that we have seen big sporting manifestations with unvaccinated athletes throughout the world," he added.

Djokovic, a five-time champion of the Indiana Wells will now have to wait and see if President Biden grants Senator Rick Scott's request.

Tags: