LONDON:
Novak Djokovic said he had no regrets about missing the matches in Indian Wells and Miami due to his COVID-19 vaccination status but hoped he would be allowed into the United States after the US Open Grand Slam .
The US currently bans unvaccinated foreigners from entering the country, although the policy is expected to be lifted once the government ends its COVID emergency in May.
Djokovic, 35, unsuccessfully applied to the US government for special permission to play in Indian Wells and Miami.
Carlos Alcaraz catapulted the Serb back to the top of the world rankings after winning Indian Wells on Sunday. “I have no regrets,” Djokovic told CNN.
“I’ve learned in life that sadness only holds you back and makes you live in the past.” I don’t want to do that. like now but actually thinking about the future, creating a better future.
“So I congratulate you Alcaraz. It really deserves to be back at number one.”
Djokovic said it was a shame he was not allowed to compete in the US where he has enjoyed so much success including three of his 22 major titles.
“But at the same time, it was a smart decision I made and I knew there was a chance I wouldn’t go,” said Djokovic.
“The current situation or the current situation I hope will change later this year, for the US Open, the This is the most important tour for me on American soil”.
The Serb said the controversy has not dampened his enthusiasm for the game.
“The truth is, apart from that, I’m happy as usual, as usual for the sport, my family, my foundation, all the work and all the things I do outside. the field,” he said.
“Honor, and honesty, and staying true to myself, and my beliefs and my rights are above all.”
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