Novak Djokovic. Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports

Novak Djokovic gives update on COVID-19 vaccination saga

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic said Wednesday that he's asked United States authorities for special permission to enter the country to play in tennis tournaments in California and Florida, despite being unvaccinated against COVID-19.

According to an Associated Press and ESPN report, the Transportation Security Administration has said the requirement for foreign air travelers to be fully vaccinated would be in place until at least mid-April. 

The BNP Paribas Open is scheduled to take place from March 5 through March 20 in Indian Wells, California and the Miami Open is slated for March 19 through April 3.

"Everything is currently in the process," Djokovic said, per the report. "I have a big desire to be there."

"I am really thankful to the Indian Wells and Miami tournament (officials) and community for their support publicly, and they would like me to be able to play in their tournaments."

The 35-year-old was deported the day before the 2022 Australian Open after he arrived in Melbourne unvaccinated against COVID-19, but those restrictions have since been lifted. Djokovic competed "down under" in January and captured his record 10th crown.

He has two career "three-peats" at the Australian Open, winning the major each year from 2011 to 2013 and then again from 2019 to 2021. Djokovic also won the event in 2008, 2015 and 2016.

His most recent title at the Australian Open put him in a tie with Rafael Nadal for the most overall grand slam singles titles (21) in men's tennis history. Earlier this week, Djokovic also tied women's tennis legend Steffi Graf for the most weeks atop the world rankings (377).

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Former Red Wings head coach linked to open NHL job
How Patriots' Drake Maye has already impressed Jacoby Brissett
LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry among Forbes' highest-paid athletes for 2024
Steve Cohen addresses if Mets could again be trade deadline sellers
Tiger Woods ruins strong first round with sloppy finish at PGA Championship
Xander Schauffele makes history in first round of PGA Championship
NFL responds to speculation about Chiefs schedule and Taylor Swift
Despite hopes for change, NASCAR championship weekend will return to Phoenix in 2025
Chiefs will achieve something not done since 1927 with 2024 schedule
Caitlin Clark's debut was most-watched WNBA game in more than 20 years
Yankees' Aaron Judge comments on resurgence after bad slump
Odell Beckham Jr. reveals why he was 'hesitant' to join Dolphins
Lakers reportedly interested in adding three-time All-Star via trade
Luka Doncic fed off negative reactions in Game 5 win over Thunder
Celtics finally put away undermanned Cavaliers, advance to conference finals
Avalanche force Game 6 with big third period vs. Stars
MLB announces punishment for Astros' Ronel Blanco over foreign substance
Vikings HC shares big Justin Jefferson contract update
Rafael Nadal switches gears, gives major update on French Open status
DeMar DeRozan confirms desire to return to Bulls