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Charisa Bossinakis
Novak Djokovic is now allowed to compete in the French Open following France’s decision to end vaccine passports.
The Serbian tennis star was famously deported from Australia before the Australian Open kicked off because he wasn't vaccinated.
While he tried to overturn the decision from the Australian government and Australian Border Force, they stuck to their guns and booted him from the country.
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He was staring down the possibility of missing his second Grand Slam for 2022 when the French Open said they would require players and staff to be vaccinated.
However, French Prime Minister Jean Castex has announced they will be easing restrictions and ending vaccination passports.
Later this month, people will no longer be required to wear masks in public places as the coronavirus pandemic is ‘improving’.
As a result, Djokovic will have a chance to defend his title at Roland-Garros when it rolls around in May.
Djokovic has also been given the thumbs up to play in the Monte Carlo Masters in April.
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Novak claims he’s not an anti-vaxxer, but he believes people should have the freedom to select whether they want the vaccine.
"I've always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body," he said.
"The principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else."
In January, Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic was critical of the Australian federal court’s decision to reject Novak’s Australian visa, deporting him back to Serbia ahead of the Australian tournament.
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The Serbian leader told reporters: “I think the court decision is scandalous...I find it unbelievable that we have two completely contradictory court decisions within the span of just a few days.
“I am disappointed...I think it demonstrated how the rule of law is functioning or better to say not functioning in some other countries. In any case, I can hardly wait to see Novak Djokovic in our own country, in Serbia.”
It's not yet clear whether Wimbledon or the US Open will require players to be vaccinated.
News of Novak being able to compete at the French Open comes after the Serbian player broke up with his long-time coach and mentor Marian Vajda, who had been by Novak’s side for each of his 20 grand slam titles in the past 15 years.
Novak stated via his website earlier this week: “Marian has been by my side during the most important and memorable moments in my career.”
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"Together we have achieved some incredible things and I am very grateful for his friendship and dedication over the last 15 years.
"While he might be leaving the professional team he will always be family and I can’t thank him enough for all he has done.”