35-year-old Novak Djokovic, who won his 21st major title with victory at Wimbledon in July, will miss out on another chance to add to his tally as he will be unable to travel to New York for the US Open, which begins on Monday.
Djokovic could not defend his Australian Open title in January because his Covid-19 vaccination status led to him being deported from the country. The Serbian had hoped to compete, but revealed on Twitter on Thursday that he will not be able to travel to NY this time for the US Open.
Since October 2021, the United States has banned non-vaccinated visitors and speculation had been rife about Djokovic’s eligibility to enter into the country. Djokovic is unvaccinated against Covid-19 and the United States will not allow visitors who have not had the jab into the country.
The US Open draws were made earlier on Thursday with the main draw starting on Monday at Flushing Meadows in New York.
Britain’s Emma Raducanu is handed a tough start against France’s Alize Cornet when she returns to New York to defend her US Open title. Serena Williams will play Danka Kovinic as she begins what is set to be the final tournament of her career.
Two-time US Open champion Naomi Osaka, now ranked 44th in the world, plays American 19th seed Danielle Collins in one of the standout first-round matches.
Poland’s world number one Iga Swiatek begins her quest for a third major title against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, with 2017 champion Sloane Stephens possibly awaiting her in the second round.
British men’s number one Cameron Norrie is seeded seventh and plays Frenchman Benoit Paire, while 2012 champion Andy Murray starts against Argentine 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo.
One of the most eye-catching first-round matches in the men’s draw pits Australia’s Nick Kyrgios against his doubles partner and good friend Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Defending men’s champion Daniil Medvedev starts his bid to retain the trophy against American world number 110 Stefan Kozlov.