Former world’s No.1 tennis player Novak Djokovic will be able to compete at this year’s French Open and defend the title he won in 2021. The news was confirmed by the tournament director Amelie Mauresmo on Wednesday.
Djokovic was unable to participate in the first Grand Slam of the season, the Australian Open after it was revealed he is not vaccinated against COVID-19. He was also forced to sit out Indian Wells and Miami tournaments for the same reason.
However, the Roland Garros is expected to take place without any limitations after France lifted most of its coronavirus-related restrictions. This will allow the Serbian tennis player to enter the country and play regardless of his vaccination status.
“As things stand, nothing stands in the way of Djokovic taking part in the French Open,” tournament director Amelie Mauresmo said at a news conference Wednesday.
It is important to note that things could still change before the 2022 French Open officially begins on May 22nd. If there is a spike in new cases of coronavirus in France, the government could decide to install new restrictions.
Novak Djokovic won the 2021 Roland Garros title after coming back from 0-2 to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the finals. It was his second title at this prestigious tournament and 19th Grand Slam title overall. He has 20 career Grand Slam wins, one less than record-holder Rafael Nadal.
