"They would like me to be able to play in their tournaments" - Djokovic seeks special permission to play in the US despite being unvaccinated

World No.1 Novak Djokovic has asked American authorities for special permission to enter the United States to play tennis tournaments in California and Florida despite being unvaccinated against the coronavirus, the top-ranked Serb said Wednesday.

The Transportation Security Administration has said the requirement for foreign air travelers to be fully vaccinated against the disease would be in place at least until mid-April. The BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells will be played March 6-19 and the Miami Open is scheduled for March 20-April 2.

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"Everything is currently in the process," Djokovic said at his training ground in Belgrade. "I have a big desire to be there.

"I am really thankful to the Indian Wells and Miami tournament [officials] and community for their support publicly, and they would like me to be able to play in their tournaments."

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Djokovic, 35, is one of the most high-profile athletes who is unvaccinated against COVID-19. Last year, he was deported from Australia ahead of the 2022 Australian Open because of his vaccination status. Djokovic returned to the tournament this January after Australia lifted its strict vaccine mandate and won his 22nd Grand Slam title, tying Rafael Nadal for the record.