The US Open starts in a month.
Novak Djokovic is practicing with the purpose of a player who will compete in New York.
Current governmental regulations prevent unvaccinated foreign travelers from entering the United States. Djokovic, who is unvaccinated and says he has no plans on taking the jab, will need a change in government policy or an exemption to play the season’s final Grand Slam as it stands now.
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The US Open said in a statement it does not have a Coronavirus vaccination policy and will adhere to U.S. government policy. Djokovic is hoping the U.S. government revises its policy regarding mandatory vaccinations for foreign visitors to the United States.
The 21-time Grand Slam champion posted this training video on social media today.
A ripped Djokovic looks ready for action in the video.
“I am preparing as if I will be allowed to compete, while I await to hear if there is any room for me to travel to US,” Djokovic posted on Twitter. “Fingers crossed! 🤞🏼💪🏼”
The former world No. 1 also thanked fans for their love and support that he called “mind blowing.”
A petition started by Padma Rajan on Change.org to let Djokovic play the 2022 US Open has already garnered more than 43,000 signatures.
“I just wanted to take a moment and say to all of you how grateful I am to see so many messages of support and love from all around the world these days,” Djokovic wrote. “I wasn’t expecting it, and that’s why it feels so mindblowing. Just wanted to say THANK YOU. 🙏🏻❤️
“It feels special that people connect with my tennis career in such a loving and supportive way and wish for me to continue to compete.”
Photo credit: Garrett Ellwood/USTA/US Open Facebook