Three-time US Open champion Novak Djokovic withdrew from the season’s final Grand Slam on Thursday before the draw was made due to travel restrictions.
“Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support,” Djokovic wrote on Twitter.. “Good luck to my fellow players! I’ll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again. See you soon tennis world!"
Sadly, I will not be able to travel to NY this time for US Open. Thank you #NoleFam for your messages of love and support. ❤️ Good luck to my fellow players! I’ll keep in good shape and positive spirit and wait for an opportunity to compete again. ???????? See you soon tennis world! ????????
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 25, 2022
Djokovic owns a 23-5 record this season, including title runs at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia in Rome and Wimbledon. The Serbian is 13th in the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Turin.
US Open Tournament Director Stacey Allaster said in a statement: "Novak is a great champion and it is very unfortunate that he will be unable to compete at the 2022 US Open, as he is unable to enter the country due to the federal government's vaccination policy for non-U.S.citizens. We look forward to welcoming Novak back at the 2023 US Open."
A lucky loser will replace Djokovic in the draw, which will be released later Thursday. The main draw will be played from 29 August-11 September.
