Despite missing out on his chance to make tennis history, world No.1 Novak Djokovic will look to put the Australian Open saga behind him in a hurry.
The unvaccinated star has reportedly put his name down to play at next month’s ATP Dubai tennis tournament, after his deportation from Australia put an end to hopes of winning a record 21st Grand Slam title.
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Tennis journalists leaked an entry list for the tournament on social media which showed Djokovic named as the top seed for the event which runs from February 21-26.
Djokovic’s next moves have been unclear since he flew out of Melbourne and home to Belgrade, via Dubai.
Since Djokovic was barred from staying in Australia, his eligibility for upcoming Grand Slams is up in the air.
Djokovic could face a tougher time playing at Flushing Meadows than anywhere else, with Wimbledon officials expected to provide clear passage for the top-ranked men’s player.
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New York’s strict vaccine mandates have forced the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving to only play road games, with protocols locking the star out of playing in the team’s home arena.
It initially appeared that the Serb tennis star would not be welcomed at Roland Garros either under a new law intended to exclude the unvaccinated from stadiums, restaurants, bars and other public places.
Under French law that took effect this week, anyone who has proof they tested positive within the previous six months is exempt from having to show a vaccine pass. That suggests Djokovic could play in the French Open in May and June, the next Grand Slam tournament, because he has said he tested positive in mid-December.
French Open organisers have previously said it’s too early to comment since virus restrictions can change between now and May depending on the virus situation.
Coronavirus vaccination is not a requirement to enter the United Arab Emirates, where 100 per cent of residents have had at least one jab.
Djokovic said he would not give public statements until the end of the Australian Open. – with AP
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