BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he still hopes US border authorities would allow him entry into the country to take part in two ATP Masters tennis tournaments despite being unvaccinated against the coronavirus.
The U.S. 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.
Indian Wells is played March 6th-19th and Miami Open between March 20th - April 2nd.
The top-ranked Serb told reporters on Wednesday that he asked for a special permission to enter the United States and that he is hoping for a positive response soon.
"Everything is currently in the process, I have a big desire to be there," said Djokovic at his training grounds in the Serbian capital, Belgrade.
"I am really thankful to the Indian Wells and Miami tournament (officials) and community or their support publicly and they would like me to be able to play in their tournaments," he added.
Djokovic one of the most high-profile athletes who is unvaccinated against COVID-19.
In 2022, the 35-year-old was deported from Australia ahead of the 2022 Australian Open because of his vaccination status.
Djokovic this week reached another milestone in his tennis career by tying German great Steffi Gaff for 377 weeks at the top spot in the World rankings.
"Obviously, Steffi Graf is one of the biggest legends of our sport, both men and women tennis and someone that I truly admire and respect," Djokovic said.
Djokovic said that his next tournament would be the Dubai Open that is played next week.
Djokovic made a triumphant return to the tournament in January after Australia lifted the strict vaccine mandate to win his 22nd Grand Slam title, tying the record with Rafael Nadal.