US Open Organizers Backed Djokovic – Looks like Novak Djokovic will make his return to the United States sooner rather than later, as both the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers have expressed support for his plans to play at Association of Tennis Professionals events in Indian Wells and Miami this month. According to a social media post from the US Open, American tennis officials hope Djokovic will be granted permission to enter for these two events. They added that fans and ATP Tour betting experts are eager to see him back on court at Indian Wells and Miami.
Djokovic’s Peturn to Play Remains Delayed by US COVID-19 Protocols
At present, World No.1 is prohibited from entering the US due to his lack of vaccination against COVID-19 and TSA has indicated that this policy would remain in place at least until mid-April. Djokovic had requested special permission to enter the US, and is still waiting to hear if he will receive that permit. He hopes a decision will be made before Monday’s Indian Wells draw. His vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. Additionally, he missed the US Open last year due to a travel restriction. In January, Djokovic returned to Australia in triumph, taking home the 2023 Australian Open for a record-tying 22nd Grand Slam singles title. On Friday afternoon however, his 20-game winning streak came to an end after falling to Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Reports: Wimbledon to Lift Ban on Russian Players
British officials responsible for running Wimbledon are looking to lift a controversial ban on Russian and Belarusian tennis players. According to reports, the All England Lawn Tennis Club is in favor of lifting the embargo. However, players from both nations may need to sign a declaration promising not to promote or glorify Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war during the tournament. An AELTC official confirmed that this matter is still being discussed with key stakeholders including the UK government.
Recall that the UK Lawn Tennis Association had previously barred Russian and Belarussian players from five ATP tournaments, including the esteemed Queen’s Club event in London. Last year, the ATP responded to Wimbledon’s ban by fining British tennis USD1 million – USD 750,000 for LTA and USD 250,000 for AELTC. Furthermore, both the ATP and Women’s Tennis Association stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points as punishment. Rumors persist that if the ban persists, organizers of Queen’s and Eastbourne tournaments could be removed from the United Kingdom and more fines may follow. At other Grand Slams around the world, such as Australia, France and the United States, Russian and Belarusian players can compete under a neutral flag. This year’s Wimbledon is scheduled for July 3-16 with Tennis online betting anticipating a star-studded event featuring some of tennis’ greatest names.
