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Novak Djokovic - no start in Indian Wells and Miami in 2023 either

There may be hope for the US Open in late summer 2023 - but Novak Djokovic is not allowed to enter the USA for the ATP Tour 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami as an unvaccinated player.

by Jens Huiber
last edit: Jan 31, 2023, 03:33 pm

Novak Djokovic has always felt comfortable in Indian Wells - like here with his victory in 2016
© Getty Images
Novak Djokovic has always felt comfortable in Indian Wells - like here with his victory in 2016

After his triumph at the Australian Open 2023, Novak Djokovic has returned to where he has long belonged after the performances he has shown over the past twelve months: at the top of the ATP world rankings. What is remarkable, however, is that Djokovic was unable to play the events in Indian Wells, Miami, Canada, Cincinnati and the US Open during the accounting period. And that there were no points for winning Wimbledon.

That's potentially 8,000 points, which the Serb might not have been fully credited with, but a good part of which could have been credited (or, in the case of Wimbledon, should have been credited).

Djokovic successful in Indian Wells and Miami

It looks similar in spring this season. Because, as the ATP confirmed in a fact sheet, only players who are vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus can start in Indian Wells and Miami. Which is probably less due to the ATP than to the entry regulations of the USA, which initially apply until April 10th.

On the one hand, this is annoying for Novak Djokovic, who was able to win the "Sunshine Double" in the years 2014 to 2016, i.e. the title in both Indian Wells and Miami. On the other hand, the now 22-time major champion also has the opportunity to prepare even better for the clay court season. Because that's where the next big goal is waiting: The third title in Roland Garros and the sole lead in the race for the most Grand Slam titles in singles.

by Jens Huiber

Tuesday
Jan 31, 2023, 08:40 pm
last edit: Jan 31, 2023, 03:33 pm