White House Rejects DeSantis Request to Allow Novak Djokovic to Play US Tournament

The White House has seemingly rejected Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request to allow Novak Djokovic to play in the Miami Open despite his vaccination status.

DeSantis had sent a letter to the White House demanding that Biden lift the COVID-19 vaccination restriction that bans Djokovic from competing in the March 19-April 2 tennis tournament.

In a tweet on Tuesday, DeSantis said:

“The only thing keeping Novak Djokovic from participating in the Miami Open tennis tournament is President Biden’s misguided and unscientific COVID-19 vaccination requirement for foreigner travelers.   Mr. President – lift your restrictions and let him compete.”

In response, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that the COVID-19 vaccination requirement, “is still in place, and we expect everyone to abide by our country’s rule whether as a participant or a spectator.”

The United States remains one of the few countries in the world to still require the COVID vaccination to enter.