Djokovic applies for exemption as he looks to play Miami and Indian Wells

Last month, the White House confirmed in a statement that it intends to terminate the public health and national emergencies for addressing the Covid-19 pandemic on May 11.

That would leave Djokovic free to participate in any events on American soil after that date despite still being unvaccinated - but not before, which is when the so-called Sunshine double will take place in Indian Wells and Miami.

However, the Serbian is eager to protect his world number one ranking, which could be in danger if he doesn't play in those two events, so he is trying to get a special exemption for entry into the US.

As of now, Djokovic remains on the entry lists for both tournaments, but time is running out for him to find a way to actually make an appearance.

According to Djokovic's younger brother, however, the Australian Open champion was back in training and hoping for a late change to the rules for foreign visitors in the US.

"It is something that unfortunately is not in our hands," Djordje Djokovic told the Serbian publication Tanjung.

"Novak has to get a special permit, considering that the USA still does not allow entry to unvaccinated people, which is simply incredible because the whole world is open and sports events around the world are held with vaccinated and unvaccinated athletes.

"Novak has submitted all the required documentation and a request, and the directors of the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments have publicly said Novak is needed at those tournaments and that they want him to come.

"There are only a few days to go before a decision is made and what remains for us to do is hope for a positive outcome," he said.