Novak Djokovic On Entry List For Vaccinated-Only Indian Wells Tournament

World No 1 Novak Djokovic has been included on the tournament entry list for Indian Wells, which is scheduled from March 7 to March 20.

Djokovic has been under the spotlight for being deported by the Australian government due to his unvaccinated status. His visa was revoked twice and the Australian government eventually deported him.

The 34-year-old 20-time Grand Slam champion, who lost a legal battle to stay and participate in the Australian Open, could now be in line to play in his next tournament. Djokovic is a five-time champion at Indian Wells, where organizers announced entries on Wednesday and stated that proof of full vaccination would be required for spectator entry into the grounds for the tournament.

The organizers at Indian Wells issued a statement regarding the requirement of vaccinations for the event, but they also said the ATP will decide player protocols for Djokovic and other men's players in line with US restrictions.

"With health and safety as the tournament's top priority, the BNP Paribas Open will require valid proof of full vaccination to enter the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the tournament," it said. "The guidelines for the players are governed by the protocols established by their respective governing bodies, the WTA and ATP, as well as any restrictions established by the United States of America in regard to the vaccination status of international travelers entering the country."

However, Djokovic could face significant struggles even getting into the United States because foreign air travelers need to be fully vaccinated since November last year and provide a proof before boarding flights, with limited exceptions. Djokovic is set to return to action at the ATP 500 Dubai Tennis Championships, which will happen between Feb. 21 to Feb. 26.

Australian Open champions Rafael Nadal and Ashleigh Barty are also on the list as well as Brit US Open champion Emma Raducanu and reigning Indian Wells men's champion Cameron Norrie. Nadal took home the Australian Open title to set the record with his 21st career Slam singles crown. Norrie will aim to replicate his impressive 2021 title run, in which he won his first Masters 1000 crown. Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas are also on the list of entries for the tournament.