Novak Djokovic was still in the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells draw, despite not currently being allowed into the United Status due to vaccine regulations.
But due to Djokovic’s refusal to withdraw, he is still in the tournament for now with the organisers confirming this just before it was completed.
“Novak Djokovic is on the tournament entry list, and therefore is placed into the draw today. We are currently in communication with his team; however, it has not been determined if he will participate in the event by getting CDC [Centre for Disease Control] approval to enter the country,” said the tweet by the organisers.
BBC interview
In his bombshell BBC interview, he confirmed that he wasn’t allowed to play at that time but also cryptically looked to a way of getting in and it seems that is the case.
“As of today, not. I can’t go, can’t enter the United States,” he said at the time. “As of today, I’m not able to play, but let’s see what happens. I mean, maybe things change in the next few weeks.”
It seems that like the Australian Open, Djokovic will aim to get a visa in some way which his team will be looking into and this will likely be prolonged until the weekend when he would start action.
This is despite the organisers initially confirming that the rules were set on this and the saga will roll on.
“In order to enter the
Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the 2022 BNP Paribas Open will require all attendees to show valid proof of full vaccination against COVID-19,” reads a statement on the tournament’s official website.
“To keep all patrons on-site as safe as possible, no exceptions to the vaccination policy will be allowed. All tournament volunteers, staff, sponsors, media, and vendors will be fully vaccinated in accordance with this policy.”