Novak Djokovic is in turbulent times. Just last month, he had won the Wimbledon Championships, defeating Australia’s Nick Kyrgios in the summit clash. The victory moved him a step closer to equaling Rafael Nadal’s record of 22 Grand Slam titles.

However, the Serbian superstar is not having the best of times since winning the grass-court Grand Slam tournament. He is at the center of a controversy surrounding his US Open participation. Recently, he suffered yet another blow ahead of the US Open, later this month.

Novak Djokovic officially out of the National Bank Open

The former World Number 1 has officially withdrawn from the National Bank Open in Montreal, an ATP 1000 tournament in Canada. Djokovic hasn’t played at this tournament since his third-round defeat against Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2018.

Earlier, Canada’s Health Minister clarified that the Covid-19 rules will apply to everybody. Thus, it was highly unlikely for Djokovic to receive an exemption to play at the Canadian Open owing to his vaccination status.

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The National Bank Open in Montreal commences this week with some of the top players in the world set to be in action. Defending champion Daniil Medvedev will be the top seed at the tournament. He will be joined by the likes of Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.

Djokovic on his US Open participation

Talking about playing in New York, the 21-time Grand Slam champion said, “I’m not vaccinated and I’m not planning to get vaccinated, so the only good news I can have is them removing the mandated green vaccine card or whatever you call it to enter United States or exemption.”

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Nonetheless, the Serb is hopeful of his participation at the US Open and is preparing for the tournament in full swing. The last Grand Slam tournament of the season commences on 29th August.