Novak Djokovic to play 2022 Rome Masters

The world No.1 Djokovic has been given the green light to play in Rome but it is unclear if he will be able to play in some other tournaments.

Earlier this week the world No.1 told the BBC that he still has reservations about having the vaccine despite it being approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). Djokovic, who was deported from Australia last month following an argument over the validity of his visa, says he is conscious about the possible effect it could have on his body.

Djokovic remains the only top 100 player not to take the vaccine as per ATP and his calendar will shrink because of that. Fortunately, there is some good news for Djokovic when it comes to the clay-court swing after a government official gave him the green light to play at the Italian Masters. Valentina Vezzali, working as the Undersecretary to Sport for the Ministry of Sports, confirmed to La Republica that Djokovic will be allowed to play based on the current rules.

She said:

“There is no demand for green passes in outdoor matches, so Djokovic, if he wants to come and play in Italy, can do so. He cannot be without a pass in hotels and restaurants, but he can play. We must also keep in mind that from March 31, depending on the fall of the epidemiological curve, the emergency situation may end. We will assess everything well before the decision."

Meanwhile Djokovic is gearing up for a return in Dubai next week.