Novak Djokovic will not be competing in the 2022 US Open, which begins next Monday, due to the United State's laws surrounding unvaccinated foreign nationals travelling the country.
There had been months of speculation as to whether Djokovic would gain an exemption to compete, if the US would change its laws, or if the Serbian tennis star would cave and get the vaccination.
He confirmed, via Twitter, that he would not be able to travel, making it the second grand slam event, after this year's Australian Open, that he will be missing due to his refusal to get vaccinated.
"Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open," Djokovic wrote on Twitter. "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!"
Djokovic Refuses To Cave
Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US 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! 👋🏼
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 25, 2022
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"I don't think it's fair," said tennis legend John McEnroe, when asked about Djokovic's ban from the US Open. "I think it's a joke.
"I would have had the vaccine and gone and played, but he's got very strong beliefs and you have to respect that. At this point in the pandemic, we're two-and-a-half years in, I think people in all parts of the world know more about it, and the idea that he can't travel here to play, to me is a joke."
In the race to see who will retire with the most grand slams, the advantage is back with Rafael Nadal, who currently leads Djokovic by one, with 22 grand slam trophies.
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