Novak Djokovic confirmed that he had asked the American authorities for a special permit to enter the United States to participate in tennis tournaments California and Florida – despite not being vaccinated COVID-19.

The Transportation Security Administration said the requirement that foreign passengers be fully vaccinated against the disease will remain in effect until at least mid-April. The Indian Wells tournament will be held from March 6-19, while the Miami Open will be held from March 20-April 2.

“Everything is in process at the moment,” Djokovic said on his practice court in Belgrade on Wednesday. “I have a great desire to be there.

“I’m very grateful to the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments (officials) and the community for their public support and they would love for me to play in their tournaments.”

Djokovic is one of the most famous athletes who has not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

The tennis legend last played in America in 2021 when he lost the US Open final (above)

Last year, Djokovic, 35, was deported from Australia ahead of the Australian Open because of his vaccination status. Djokovic returned to the tournament in January after Australia lifted its strict vaccine mandate to win his 22nd Grand Slam title, equaling Rafael Nadal’s record.

Djokovic said on Wednesday that Nadal remains his biggest rival on court despite the rise of 19-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who was at the top of the rankings before a leg injury ruled him out of the Australian Open.

“(Alcaraz) may be the next greatest thing in our sport, or he’s already there.” Djokovic said. “I just feel that the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate.

The five-time winner has not played in Indian Wells since 2019 due to US vaccine requirements

He admitted on Wednesday that he plans to play in Indian Wells and Miami – if they let him

“Nadal was the biggest opponent and he will probably remain the biggest opponent of my career.”

Djokovic reached another milestone in his tennis career this week, tying German great Steffi Gaff with 377 weeks at the top of the world rankings.

“Obviously, Steffi Graf is one of the biggest legends of our sport, both men’s and women’s tennis, and someone I really admire and respect,” Djokovic said. “So of course it’s great to be able to tie her record and obviously have a chance to break it next week.”

Djokovic said his next tournament will be the Dubai Open next week.