Novak Djokovic leaving the Park Hotel in Melbourne on Sunday.
Novak Djokovic is one step closer to making his long-awaited return to the US Open after the United States Senate passed a bill to end the nation’s COVID-19 restrictions.
The 22-time grand slam champion last competed in the tournament two years ago after he was denied entry into the country in 2022 because of his vaccination status.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US government made the vaccine a requirement for all international travellers arriving in the country from November 8, 2021.
READ MORE: Ricky fumes as ‘weak-gutted dog’ fires back
READ MORE: ‘Six or seven’ bolters tipped for first Eddie squad
READ MORE : Former England skipper cleared of racist remark
As a result, Djokovic, who is unvaccinated, has been refused entry ever since.
Last month, Djokovic was forced to withdraw ahead of Indian Wells and the Miami Open, having lost his bid to gain an exception and enter the United States.
On Wednesday, the US Senate voted in favour of ending its COVID-19 national emergency declared in March 2020, meaning the bill is now set to be considered by President Joe Biden.
Watch Roland-Garros 2023 from May 29. Every match ad free and on demand. Centre court coverage in 4K UHD on Stan Sport
It has been reported that Biden is expected to sign, with plans to end the declaration in May.
If this is authorised, Djokovic will be able to touch down in New York for the US Open which is scheduled to begin on August 28.
Djokovic is a three-time winner at the US Open.
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
