Novak Djokovic has formally withdrawn from the upcoming US Open and Miami Open after his request to enter the United States unvaccinated to play the prestigious tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami being denied.

The tournament organisers said they were “hopeful” that the World No 1 would be granted special permission to enter the country. 

Current restrictions are due to end in April and Djokovic wants dispensation to play in the tournaments.

The US Open in Indian Wells starts next week and is immediately followed by the Miami Open.

Djokovic missed the Australian Open and US Open last year because of his vaccination status. 

Australia dropped its vaccination requirement for entering the country, meaning Djokovic returned to this year’s edition of the tournament in Melbourne, where he beat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam title.