Novak Djokovic clear to play in French Open 'as things stand'

Novak Djokovic will be able to defend his French Open title in May as things stand, according to tournament director Amelie Mauresmo.

Djokovic was denied the right to enter Australia for the year's first grand slam due to his unvaccinated status and withdrew from the recent tournament in Indian Wells for the same reason.

However, France largely lifted coronavirus restrictions this week, with the exception of certain areas such as hospitals and nursing homes.

And Mauresmo told a press conference on Wednesday: "As things stand, nothing stands in the way of Djokovic taking part in the French Open."

Officials are planning for the grounds to be at full capacity for the tournament for the first time in two years, with half a million tickets already sold.

However, organisers conceded that their plans – and by extension the participation of Djokovic – could be put back in doubt should rising case numbers prompt any of the restrictions to be reintroduced.

French tennis federation president Gilles Moretton said: "There’s still a virus circulating, and we have to be cautious.

"If things were to happen again and the government would take new measures, we would not be excluded from these measures."

Djokovic has steadfastly refused to consider vaccination, indicating that he would rather jeopardise his hold on the world number one ranking and his pursuit of a 21st career grand slam crown than get a jab.

"The principles of decision-making on my body are more important than any title or anything else," Djokovic told the BBC in February. "I’m trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can."