Djokovic, probably the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated towards COVID, stated final week he hoped for a constructive consequence shortly after making use of to enter the U.S. to compete in ATP Masters 1000 occasions in Indian Wells and Miami this month.

“Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen,” the U.S. Open Twitter account stated on Friday.

“The USTA and U.S. Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami,” it added.

The U.S. vaccine requirement for international air travellers just isn’t anticipated to be lifted earlier than the primary draw begins at Indian Wells on March 9 and the Miami Open later within the month, that means Djokovic may miss out for a second straight yr.

U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration stated in January it will elevate COVID emergency declarations on May 11, however Djokovic – named on the Indian Wells entry record – stated he had submitted the required documentation for particular permission.

Indian Wells event director Tommy Haas stated in January it will be a “disgrace” if Djokovic was not allowed to compete this yr after the Serbian additionally missed final yr’s U.S. Open.

Djokovic, who missed final yr’s Australian Open and was deported from the nation as a result of his vaccination standing, has stated he would skip Grand Slams fairly than have a COVID shot.

The 35-year-old received a record-extending tenth Australian Open title and his twenty second Grand Slam in January.