A huge shocker for Novak Djokovic fans. The world’s number-one tennis star has formally withdrawn from the 2023 Indian Wells. After winning the Australian Open, the 22-time Grand Slam champion was eagerly looking to play the ATP Masters events at Indian Wells and Miami.

The Serbian tennis player hasn’t competed in the ‘Sunshine Doubles’ since 2019. These two events are considered to be among the biggest on the ATP schedule and count as significant triumphs.

Novak Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells

The official Twitter page of Indian Wells recently announced that the Serbian tennis player will not be a part of the upcoming tournament. This all started last month, when the Serb, who is one of the few unvaccinated athletes in the circuit, applied to the US government for special permission to play at Indian Wells. However, his application for Visa failed because of his unvaccinated status.

“World No.1 Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the 2023 BNP Paribas Open. With his withdrawal, Nikoloz Basilashvili moves into the field, “ the statement reads.

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According to the US authorities, he cannot compete in any of the tournaments that are held in the US due to his stance on Covid vaccination. Nevertheless, Nikoloz Basilashvili, the 31-year-old Georgian tennis player, will now get a chance to play in the tournament.

READ MORE – Homeland Security Crushes Novak Djokovic’s American Dream as Indian Wells and Miami Hopes Get Washed Out

Notably, A similar situation occurred just before the US Open waiver last year when the Serbian legend abruptly withdrew from one of the prestigious ATP 1000 masters just before the main tournament. One important thing to note here is that the emergency vaccine mandate put in place by the US government will end on May 11. Post that, travelers from other countries can enter America irrespective of their vaccination status.

WATCH THIS STORY – Serena Williams’ Ex-coach Patrick Mouratoglou Launches Fresh Controversy as He Irks Rafael Nadal Fans With a Biased Novak Djokovic Statement

But the problem doesn’t end here. The withdrawal from Indian Wells has its own downside for Djokovic as he might find himself ousted from the number one position after ruling the spot for a few weeks now. The 22-time Grand Slam champion will now look forward to the European clay-court swing as he bids to make history at the 2023 French Open.