France throws ballast on vaccine measures later this month, which could pave the way for Novak Djokovic to participate in the 2022 edition of the French Open tennis tournament.
Posted at 7:42 p.m.
French Prime Minister Jean Castex announced on Thursday that the vaccine passport will no longer be compulsory to access stadiums and restaurants from March 14. Which means that Djokovic, who is not vaccinated against COVID-19, could participate in the Roland-Garros tournament next May, unless the French government does an about-face by then.
“The situation is improving thanks to our collective efforts, announced Castex. We have fulfilled the necessary conditions to begin the next phase of relaxation of measures. As of Monday, March 14, we are suspending the need for a vaccination passport wherever it is required. »
Djokovic was deported from Australia in January after fighting a legal battle over his right to enter the country despite his vaccination status. He missed the Australian Open for this reason.
He told the BBC last month that he is also prepared to miss future grand slams if they require proof of vaccination.
Djokovic has won the French Open twice in his quest for 20 grand slam titles. This is one less than the ATP record, held by Rafael Nadal after he triumphed at the last edition of the Australian Open.
The new measure may also allow Djokovic to take part in the Monte-Carlo Masters – on clay – in April.