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.
French Prime Minister Jean Castex announced on Thursday that the vaccine passport would 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 [rempli] the conditions necessary 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. »
Legal contest
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 he was ready 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 the latter triumphed at the last edition of the Australian Open.
The new measure would also allow Djokovic to take part in the Monte-Carlo Masters – on clay – in April.
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