For the first time this year, Novak Djokovic will be eligible to play in a Grand Slam as French Open organizers said Wednesday that the event’s defending champion will be cleared to compete in the 126th edition of the tournament.
The decision to allow Djokovic, who is unvaccinated against COVID-19, back at the French Open comes after France lifted restrictions in almost all public spaces except hospitals, nursing homes and public transit Monday. Roland Garros, the tournament’s host, is expected to be operating at full capacity by the time the event begins May 22.
“As things stand, nothing stands in the way of Djokovic taking part in the French Open,” tournament director Amélie Mauresmo said at a news conference Wednesday, per ESPN.
