With France lifting protocols around COVID-19 vaccine passports, tennis star Novak Djokovic, who is not vaccinated, will now likely be able to compete in the French Open. Starting on March 14, vaccine passports will not be required in France. The French Open, a tournament that Djokovic won in 2021, is scheduled to begin on May 22.
Djokovic has been vocal about his vaccine status, saying he would give up Grand Slam title chances before getting vaccinated. Despite his stance, he says he is not anti-vaccine.
He was deported from Australia 24 hours before the start of the 2022 Australian Open, ending his chances at winning the tournament. It was looking like he would not be able to participate in a major tennis tournament for some time, with most places requiring the COVID-19 vaccine.
But with France loosening their protocols surrounding the coronavirus, this opens the door for Djokovic to once again take the court.
While in France, he will be looking for his 21st Grand Slam title, which is the men's record held by Rafael Nadal. Djokovic is currently ranked as the No. 2 player in the world, behind only Daniil Medvedev. Medvedev took over the world No. 1 spot in February.
Going forward, Djokovic will likely still miss out on matches due to his vaccination status. He will not be permitted to participate in The Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami because the United States does not allow entry to those who are not vaccinated.
He could also miss the US Open due to the United States' protocols.
