Djokovic Could Miss Indian Wells, Miami Open For Third Consecutive Year: Here's Why

Former World No. 1 Novak Djokovic reportedly will miss the upcoming editions of ATP Indian Wells and Miami Open.

Miami Open and Indian Wells were not held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Djokovic did not compete in the 2021 and 2022 editions because of the strict U.S. vaccine mandate for visitors.

The 21-time Grand Slam winner could face the same fate even this year as unvaccinated people will not be allowed to enter the country until April, at the earliest, according to The Age.

Djokovic missed two Grand Slams last year – Australian and US Open – as he refused to take the COVID-19 vaccine. His arch-rival Rafael Nadal took the lead in the major titles race by triumphing in the Australian Open and Roland Garros. He took his Grand Slam tally to 22, but Djokovic cut down the deficit by clinching the Wimbledon trophy.

The U.S. Transport Security Administration (TSA) has extended the requirement for all overseas travelers to be fully vaccinated. As per that, visitors should produce proof of vaccination until April 10.

This means, Djokovic, who is the record title holder at the ATP Masters Indian Wells (5) and Miami Open (6), will not be able to compete this year. The Indian Wells is scheduled to be played from March 8 to 19 and the tournament in Miami will be held from March 22 to April 2.

Meanwhile, the vaccine mandate rule is only for visiting non-citizens and is optional for the fans attending.

"The 2023 BNP Paribas Open will not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination for fans attending the event at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. We will continue to closely monitor the situation leading up to the tournament and reevaluate any policies as necessary. The policy on indoor dining will also be separately assessed closer to the event," read a statement from the Indian Wells tournament.

Djokovic is one of the favorites to win the Australian Open this year. He is currently competing in the Adelaide Open. The Serbian player defeated France's Constant Lestienne 6-3, 6-2 and qualified for the Round of 16.

Djokovic, who was deported from Australia last year, will next take on another Frenchman, Quentin Halys, who beat Australia's Jordan Thompson 6-3, 6-4.