‘I would run a boat for him’ – Florida governor appeals to US President for including Novak Djokovic in Miami Open 2023
Novak Djokovic (Source – Twitter)
Star Serbian Tennis player Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Indian Wells Masters tournament after he failed to secure an exemption to feature in the championship. It’s because of Djokovic’s unvaccinated status that he is not being allowed to go to US for the tournament.
In 2022, just ahead of the commencement of the Australian Open, Djokovic was controversially deported from Australia because of not getting a Covid-19 vaccine. However, Djokovic exclusion from the major tournament and ATP championships didn’t go well with some politicians and former players. The 35-year-old was allowed to ply his trade at the 2023 Australian Open, where he won his 10th title.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis has recently affirmed for Djokovic’s entry in the US to feature in the Miami Open. DeSantis stated that he will hundred percent make sure that the Serbian star get to play in the tournament. He also criticised Joe Biden’s Covid-19 restriction by calling it “misguided and unscientific.”
“I would run a boat from the Bahamas here for him. I would do that a hundred percent. I think his people are looking at it, and I’m not sure that’s the way they want to come into the country, which I understand. I think it’d be a great moment, but you know, nevertheless,” said DeSantis at a press conference as reported by Sportskeeda.
“The only thing keeping Novak Djokovic from participating in the Miami Open tennis tournament is President Biden’s misguided and unscientific COVID-19 vaccination requirement for foreigner travelers,” he further added.
Desantis then urged the US President to lift the restrictions and let Djokovic participate in the tournament.
“Mr. President – lift your restrictions and let him compete,” he added.
Florida Senator Rick Scott has also come in the support of the Serbian star and urged the US government to intervene in the matter and ensure Djokoivc’s entry into the country. The World number one has received support from the organisers of the US Open tournament as well
“Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest champions our sport has ever seen. The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami,” stated in US Open social media page.
