Why Novak Djokovic was denied to participate at the Australian Open even though swimmer Michael Andrew is allowed to participate despite being unvaccinated?
Follow Us
Novak Djokovic and Michael Andrew
Novak Djokovic, the former world number one and one of the greatest athletes in the world, has been dealing with a lot of difficulties since the start of the year due to him being unvaccinated. His chance of participation at the US Open in 2022 is still in a lot of ambiguity as he is still unvaccinated and does not have the intention to get vaccinated anytime soon. He feels it may hamper his physical stamina and may hinder his performances at big events.
It started during the time when the Serbian was deported from the country after landing in the country and faced very strict and unjustified behavior. He also could not participate in the Australian Open in 2022 for being unvaccinated. The Serbian could not defend his title at the Australian Open and most importantly his visa was termed ‘void’ with a three-year suspension that will prevent him from participating at the Australian Open. It was a much debatable issue and faced a lot of opinions from people around the world while many supported the legend about his decision while some criticized his behavior as careless and unjustified.
Will the change in guidelines come out in favor of Novak Djokovic?
The Australian Government rolled out a significant change in the COVID guidelines which stated that any traveler no longer is required proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a negative test to enter the country. This rule change paved way for many athletes to participate in events in the country even without being vaccinated, especially after US swimmer Michael Andrew was allowed to participate at the 2022 Duel in the Pool event in Sydney as he is unvaccinated and also had opted to remain unvaccinated at the Tokyo Olympics. He even refused to wear masks in the mixed zone in the competition.
The government issued a statement where it was mentioned “The Chief Medical Officer has advised it is no longer necessary for travelers to declare their vaccine status as part of our management of Covid. Unvaccinated Australians, as well as certain groups of visa holders, have been able to travel to Australia for some time. We will continue to act on the medical advice as needed.“
After Andrews was allowed to participate, it created a lot of stir as Djokovic faced a lot of humiliation for the same issue during the Australian Open in January 2022 and faced such outrageous behavior from the government. Such kind of favoritism did not go well with his fans and supporters and it has surely been a life-changing decision for the Serbian. This decision just ahead of the US Open may be a boon for the 21-time Grand Slam champion as the hopes of his participation at Flushing Meadows seem to be alive and he will get another chance to become the champion at the US Open.
Stay Updated!
Prateek Pradhan
(601 Articles Published)