COVID-19: Petition to allow Djokovic play in U.S. Open reaches 12,000
Almost 12,000 people have signed an online petition urging the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to work with the country’s government to allow Novak Djokovic to compete in the U.S. Open.
This will be in spite of his refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine.
Djokovic will not be able to participate in the year’s final Grand Slam due to current rules.
Under the rules, travellers seeking to enter the U.S. have to be fully vaccinated and provide proof before boarding flights.
The 21-times major champion won the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon titles in 2021.
But he was unable to defend his Melbourne Park crown this year after being deported from Australia over his vaccination status in January.
“There is absolutely no reason at this stage of the pandemic to not allow Djokovic to play at the U.S. Open 2022,” said the change.org petition, which was launched on June 21.
“(The) US Government and USTA must work together to allow him to play … MAKE IT HAPPEN, USTA!”
The Serb retained his Wimbledon crown with a win over Australia’s Nick Kyrgios earlier this month.
He had in February said he was prepared to miss Grand Slam tournaments rather than take the COVID-19 vaccine.
The main draw at the U.S. Open begins on August 29.
(Reuters/NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Sport
Ministry signs N35 billion MoU with firm for sports development
Mr Enoh said that the partnership would help to inject funding into sports development from the private sector.
Economy
Kerosene price stood at N1,354.40 in March: NBS
It said the South-South recorded the lowest average retail price per litre of kerosene at N1,273.07.
States
Gov. Ododo warns against breach of peace
My administration will no doubt resist any attempt to instigate violent protests in any part of the state under any guise
Heading 2
Okuama Killings: Senator commends DHQ for release of detained traditional ruler
The king was released on Friday by the Defence Headquarters after spending about three weeks in the military custody.
Heading 3
Court adjourns Nnamdi Kanu’s N1 billion suit against FG for adoption of processes
Mr Benye said the instant suit was an abuse of court process.
Heading 5
Two die in Ilaro-Owode road crash
She said that a total number of seven people were involved, which comprised four men and three women.