Dubai (AP) – The unvaccinated world number one Novak Djokovic has not yet given up his hope of participating in the Masters tennis event in Indian Wells.
“As of today, I can’t play. But let’s wait and see what happens. I mean, maybe things will change in the next few weeks,” said the 34-year-old Serb after his successful comeback on the tennis tour in Dubai. Djokovic won his first match of the year against Italian Lorenzo Musetti 6: 3, 6: 3.
The tournament in Indian Wells begins on March 10th. Unlike Indian Wells, no coronavirus vaccination is required in Dubai. Djokovic was unable to take part in the Australian Open in January as the defending champion and record winner because his medical exemption from the tournament was not sufficient for entry. A federal court had finally expelled him a day before the start.
“Most of the players I’ve met here in the last few days have been friendly to me,” said Djokovic in Dubai: “The majority welcomed me and said it’s nice to see me back on the tour.”