Djokovic gets French Open boost after vaccine rules change

Novak Djokovic set to play at Roland Garros after France decides to suspend its Covid-19 vaccine pass requirements

Weeks after his nightmare at the Australian Open, world number two Novak Djokovic appears to be on course to compete at the French Open, as well as other tournaments in France, after the country decided to suspend its pass requirements for the Covid-19 vaccine.

Djokovic was at the center of a media maelstrom earlier this year when he was eventually kicked out of Australia after receiving a vaccine exemption to defend his crown Down Under, and there were fears similar demands could have an impact on the rest of the Serbian star’s 2022 season.

But it now looks like his return to the ATP Tour will see him compete at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters next month, as well as the French Open in May where he is the defending champion, after France announced the suspension of the obligation to vaccinate from March 14.

« The situation is improving thanks to our collective efforts. The conditions are met for a new phase of relaxation of measures. From Monday March 14, we will suspend the application of the vaccination record wherever it applies“said Prime Minister Jean Castex.

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This means that, with Wimbledon potentially allowing unvaccinated players, Djokovic should have at least two more opportunities to add to his record 20 Grand Slam wins and nab the Open 2019 winner Rafael Nadal’s tally. Australia which now has 21 victories in its career. .

However, Djokovic’s appearance at the US Open, as well as other tournaments in the United States, remains uncertain due to rules prohibiting unvaccinated people from entering the country.

It is already confirmed that Djokovic will miss both Masters 1000 events in the United States this month in Indian Wells and Miami.

Djokovic, who was recently overtaken by Russia’s Daniil Medvedev at No. 1 in the world rankings, made his return to tournament tennis last week in Dubai.

It was also confirmed this week that Djokovic has parted ways with his longtime manager Marian Vajda.

The Serb won the French Open last year, bypassing Nadal in the semi-finals before beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final.