Djokovic enters vaxxed-only event
Tennis champion Novak Djokovic has entered into next month's Indian Wells ATP event in California, just weeks after he was prevented from competing in the Australian Open.
Organisers for the ATP event announced the player entry list on Thursday, and said proof of full vaccination will be required to enter the grounds for the event that runs from March 7th to March 20th.
Many tennis fans have taken Novak's registration in the event as a sign the Serbian star has finally received his Covid-19 vaccinations.
Organisers at Indian Wells released a statement saying vaccines will be required for the event, but also said player protocols for Djokovic and other men’s players will be decided by the ATP in line with US restrictions.
“With health and safety as the tournament’s top priority, the BNP Paribas Open will require valid proof of full vaccination to enter the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the tournament,” a statement said.
“The guidelines for the players are governed by the protocols established by their respective governing bodies, 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.”
Novak was set to compete for his fourth consecutive Australian Open title in January, before being turned away at the border for his invalid visa and vaccination passport.
Spain’s Rafael Nadal, who is also on the Indian Wells entry list, won the Australian Open to set the record with his 21st career slam singles crown.
Last week, author of Novak's biography A Lifetime At War, suggested that seeing Nadal take out the Australian Open win may have been a motivating factor for the Serbian to get vaccinated.
Image credits: Getty Images