Djokovic can defend Wimbledon title due to lack of COVID-19 restrictions

Novak Djokovic will be able to defend his Wimbledon title this year as players will not need to be vaccinated against coronavirus to feature in the tournament.

World number one Djokovic was unable to compete in the 2022 Australian Open after he was deported from the country in January.

The Australian government cancelled the Serbian’s visa on “health and good order” grounds and he failed with an attempt to overturn that decision in court.

Djokovic will be able to play in the grass-court grand slam at the All England Club, though, due to a lack of COVID-19 restrictions in the United Kingdom.

All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) chief executive Sally Bolton said during a media briefing on Tuesday: “As you will be aware, the requirements set up by the government to enter the UK do not include mandatory vaccinations.

“Therefore, whilst of course it is encouraged, it will not be a condition of entry in order to compete in the Championships this year.”

Djokovic can also play in the French Open following the easing of restrictions.

There will be no Russian or Belarusian players when Wimbledon is staged from June 27 to July 10 at SW19 due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.