Novak Djokovic could be allowed to play at the Grand Slam despite not being vaccinated by a special medical exemption.
One of the most vocal anti-vaxxers in the world, World Number 1, has not yet revealed if he was fully vaccinated for Covid-19.
Tennis Australia last month announced only double-jabbed players would be allowed to play at Melbourne Park in January, throwing Djokovic’s title defence into doubt.
But, according to the top sporting organising body, players can bypass strict quarantine regulations by applying for a valid medical exemption.
Djokovic, who contracted the virus while hosting an event in the middle the pandemic, is a vocal anti-vaxxer.
News Corp reports that Djokovic has apparently grounds for an exemption request and has been backed by Tennis Australia officials.
‘[The rules]A Tennis Australia spokesperson said that certified proof of vaccination must be provided or an exemption valid for medical reasons.
‘What has also been made clear by health officials is that international arrivals who don’t meet these requirements will need to quarantine for 14 days.’
On Tuesday, the 34 year-old confirmed that he will participate in the warmup ATP Cup in Sydney in January. It is a strong indicator that he either has a medical exemption or is fully vaccinated.
According to ATP, the “Top Seed Serbia” will be dominated in Group A by World No.1 Novak Djokovic. The group will also include Norway, Chile, and Spain.
Djokovic is Australia’s most successful champion and will attempt to win a 10th title at Melbourne in the next competition, which begins on January 17.
Novak Djokovic, the world’s No.1 tennis player confirmed on Tuesday that he will participate in the ATP Cup Sydney – strong indications that he is vaccinated. Novak Djokovic will also play in the Australian Open
So far, he has refused to answer questions regarding his availability to the first grand slam. He stated in an interview last summer that he would need to think about the future of the sport if mandatory vaccinations are required.
“My concern with vaccines is that someone might force me into taking something. That I don’t want. For me that’s unacceptable,’ he told the New York Times.
Particularly because of the constant’mutation’, he was unsure about the Covid vaccination.
Djokovic is refusing to answer questions regarding his availability at the grand slam.
Novak Djokovic photographed with Jelena. Tennis Australia stated last month that in January, only players with double jabbed will be permitted at Melbourne Park.
According to the 34-year-old, he has yet to talk to Tennis Australia regarding his eligibility for this competition.
To be completely honest, I have not been speaking to them. “I was only waiting to hear the latest news and now I know that we’ll have to just wait and watch,” he stated.
“I’m sorry that you need answers about where and how to begin the next season. But we’ll just have to wait and see.
“I don’t have a date to give, but I can tell you that the Australian Open is very near, so we will let you know soon.”