Former seven-time Grand Slam champion John McEnroe believes it’s stupid and a joke that Novak Djokovic will be missing the upcoming US Open due to his unvaccinated status. According to the US immigration rules, Djokovic can not enter the country as he has not taken the jab against Covid-19.
Earlier in the season, Djokovic could not take part in the Australian Open after he was deported from the country. After winning Wimbledon, the Serbian revealed he would not travel to US Open unless he has full clarity on the situation.
Djokovic had earlier said while talking to the BBC that he is ready to compromise his chance of taking part in the big events if he is forced to take the shot against the virus.
The former World No.1 had earlier missed Miami Open and Indian Wells in the US and most recently could not take part in the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Masters.
“I think it’s stupid that they don’t let him play,” McEnroe told Marca from New York. “It’s the closest thing to a joke. I would have been vaccinated instead, but you have to respect their way of thinking. We have been living with the pandemic for two and a half years and I consider it a joke that they won’t allow him to participate.”
The former legendary American player feels Rafael Nadal is at the advantage in the absence of Novak Djokovic in the New York Major.
“What is evident is that when Djokovic is not there, the great beneficiary is Nadal,” he continued. “[Nadal] produced a miraculous victory at the Australian Open and the Serbian was the favorite there having won nine titles.
“It is true that Djokovic is younger and it seems that his body responds to him and he has no injuries. He can reach 25 majors, but in addition to the tennis part you have to add the mental aspect.
“It is not easy to train without knowing when or what you will be able to play on your planned schedule. It took him four months to get his head back after everything that happened to him in Australia in January.”
US Open 2022 will kick off on August 29 in New York.
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