Hopeful Djokovic trains on hard courts – “I am preparing as if I will be allowed to compete”

Novak Djokovic remains hopeful – and positive – about his chances of playing the US Open in 2022.

Novak Djokovic at the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Credit: AI / REUTERS / PANORAMIC

Chris Oddo

July 30, 2022

Novak Djokovic is holding out hope for a trip to the US Open this summer.

The 21-time major champion posted his message to the world on social media on Saturday, along with a video of himself practicing on hard courts.

“I am preparing as if I will be allowed to compete, while I await to hear if there is any room for me to travel to US. Fingers crossed!” Djokovic said in an Instagram post, accompanied by footage of him practicing on a hard court.

I am preparing as if I will be allowed to compete, while I await to hear if there is any room for me to travel to US. Fingers crossed! 🤞🏼💪🏼https://t.co/cIDfdPtZ5t
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) July 30, 2022

Djokovic is still technically in limbo when it comes to his participation in North America this summer. He has stated that he will not change his vaccination status, so his chance of participation rests on changes in government policy or an exemption.

As it currently stands, current governmental regulations prevent unvaccinated foreign travelers from entering the United States.

Nevertheless, Djokovic is in good spirits and shared his feelings of gratitude with his supporters.

“I just wanted to take a moment and say to all of you how grateful I am to see so many messages of support and love from all around the world these days,” he said. I wasn’t expecting it, and that’s why it feels so mindblowing. Just wanted to say THANK YOU. It feels special that people connect with my tennis career in such a loving and supportive way and wish for me to continue to compete.”