“I’m very disappointed,” Tommy Haas condemns the Biden government over denying entry to Novak Djokovic
Tommy Haas is disappointed that Novak Djokovic was denied permission to play in the United States
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Djokovic and Haas
While the absence of Novak Djokovic may not have a significant impact on other players in the circuit, Tommy Haas, director of the Indian Wells Masters 1000, seems to be taking it hard. Despite his best efforts to convince the world number one to come to California, the German expressed deep disappointment as the tournament began on Wednesday.
It’s indeed very upsetting for the fans as well to not see him at the Indian Wells Open as Rafael Nadal also withdrew from the tournament a while ago citing an injury. As of now, unvaccinated foreigners are prohibited from entering the US, but this policy is anticipated to be lifted on May 11, once the government terminates its COVID-19 emergency declarations.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Haas said, “It’s very disappointing. I think America is the only country that still has restrictions that you are not allowed to enter the country if you are not vaccinated. Other professional athletes around the world have also decided not to get vaccinated. We should let it go and let it play. I see no reason not to and I’m very disappointed he’s not here.”
He also said, “A lot of people in tennis and we as a tournament have tried everything to get Djokovic to come and play here but to no avail. He’s the best player in the world. I think it’s sad. He also wrote to me himself that he would have liked to be there.”
Novak Djokovic targets clay season ahead of the French Open
As his best rival on the court, Rafael Nadal started his preparations for the clay season due to injuries that sidelined him from the Indian Wells Open and Miami Open. Novak Djokovic also has started his focus on Roland Garros. He is not too worried about missing out on the Indian Wells. However, his team is trying to get permission before the start of the Miami Open.
Both players are currently equaled at 22 Grand Slam titles. It will be an opportunity for these two to increase their tally. Nadal has had a very below par season so far playing only two tournaments with a win-loss record of 1-2. On the contrary, Djokovic had been in sublime touch and looking to cash his form.
However, Rafael Nadal cannot be taken for granted on a clay court. He will be the title favorite if he’s playing and it will be an exciting Grand Slam for both players. They have a golden opportunity to equal Serena Williams‘s tally of 23 Grand Slam titles if they win here.
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Santhosh Tenneti
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