Reports: Novak Djokovic denied US entry to participate in Indian Wells, Miami Open

Florida Senator Rick Scott has called for President Joe Biden's intervention.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has reportedly been denied entry into the United States (US) ahead of the ATP 1000 Indian Wells tournament. Florida Senator Rick Scott on Twitter revealed that Homeland Security rejected the player's vaccine waiver request. He further added and asked for Joe Biden’s intervention to sort out the issue and allow the Serbian to participate.

The saga around Djokovic and the Covid-19 vaccination has been going on for the past two years. The Serbian was not allowed to participate in the 2021 Australian Open but he came stronger this year to bag the grand slam.

Currently, the US has a ban on unvaccinated travellers from entering the country. Djokovic has therefore applied for a special permit so that he could participate in the Indian Wells and Miami Open.

Novak Djokovic denied entry to the US

While addressing the press last week he said, "Everything is currently in the process. I have a big desire to be there. I am really thankful to the Indian Wells and Miami tournament (officials) and community for their support publicly and they would like me to be able to play in their tournaments". The ATP 1000 Masters Miami Open will be held from 08-19 March 2023.

Novak had a good start to the 2023 season winning the ATP 250 Adelaide I Open. He clinched his 10th Australian Open title and dropped only one set in the entire tournament. The Serbian suffered his first loss of the season to Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals of the ATP 500 Dubai Duty-Free Championships.

He tied Steffi Graf's record for most weeks as World No. 1, which she set back 25 years ago. The following week, he broke the record with 378 weeks at no. 1, which is also the most of any tennis player (male or female).