Eugenie Bouchard stands in support of Novak Djokovic as he speaks up about Indian Wells and Miami Open 2023 absence

Eugenie Bouchard expressed her support for Novak Djokovic's unwavering resolve regarding his decision to skip the ATP Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami.

Novak Djokovic was forced to withdraw from the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and the Miami Open due to vaccination policies in place for foreign travelers by the US government.

In a recent interview with CNN, the 22-time Grand Slam champion opened up about his mindset regarding his inability to compete in the Sunshine Double, where he has previously enjoyed great success. He is the only player to win the Sunshine Double on four occasions in 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2016.

An Instagram account posted an excerpt of the interview where the Serb expressed that he has no regrets about missing the Sunshine Double given his belief that regrets only hinder progress and cause people to dwell on the past.

“It’s a pity that I wasn’t able to play in Indian Wells, Miami. I love those tournaments. I have no regrets. I’ve learned through life that regrets only hold you back and basically make you live in the past and I don’t want to do that," the post read.

Eugenie Bouchard shared her support for the former World No. 1 as she reposted his words to her social media.

Eugenie Bouchard's Instagram story

Djokovic further stated that he was unsurprised by the US government's decision to deny his exemption appeal and continued to stand by his decision to remain unvaccinated.

“But at the same time, it is the conscious decision I made and I knew that there is always a possibility that I won’t go, and it is the current state or current situation,” he added.

Novak Djokovic hopes to compete at the US Open 2023

The Serb won the 2018 US Open

In the same interview, Novak Djokovic expressed his desire to see the vaccination policy change in time for him to take part in the US Open. He emphasized the significance of the tournament as he seeks to further his Grand Slam success.

“I hope (it) will change for later this year for the US Open. That is the most important tournament for me on the American soil. I really want to be playing there, want to be there,” he said.

Djokovic also graciously extended his congratulations to Carlos Alcaraz, who overtook the Serb for the World No. 1 ranking with his title win at the 2023 Indian Wells Masters.

“So I congratulate Alcaraz. He absolutely deserves to come back to No. 1,” he remarked.

Novak Djokovic is expected to make his return to the ATP tour at the Monte-Carlo Masters, scheduled to be held between April 9-16. The former World No. 1 has won the tournament on two previous occasions, in 2013 and 2015.