Novak Djokovic appears free to defend French Open title as France lifts vaccine passport rules

Novak Djokovic appears free to defend his Roland Garros title after France relaxed its rules surrounding Covid vaccine passports. The world No. 2 was caught up in a protracted saga surrounding his vaccination status at the Australian Open – a high-profile case that ended with him being deported on the eve of the tournament.

Ad/> Djokovic, who will chase a men’s record-equalling 21st Grand Slam title in Paris, was replaced as world No. 1 by Daniil Medvedev last month. TennisMedvedev still a long way from Big Three's top level — WilanderYESTERDAY AT 22:21 Vaccine passports will no longer be required in France from March 14, with the French Open due to start on May 22.

It was previously looking unlikely that Djokovic would be unable to take to the court at Roland Garros, but this U-turn means we will see the Serb back competing at a Grand Slam much sooner than we originally thought. Djokovic will also be allowed to take part in the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters, which runs between April 9 and 17. 'The hardest match of my life' — Ukraine's Yastremska on tennis during invasion 'Not great for tennis' — Zverev punishment for umpire chair attack not enough — Wilander Following the French Open, Djokovic’s focus can turn to Wimbledon, with the UK Government set to allow all players, regardless of their vaccination status to compete in the Grand Slam.

However, the world No. 2 is still unable to play in the United States, where entry to non-vaccinated people is still forbidden. This means he will miss both of this month’s Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami.