The prospect of Novak Djokovic participating in the Australian Open is looking increasingly unlikely after multiple sources confirmed that his visa application has been cancelled.
Reports from The Age newspaper and other leading media sources have confirmed that the world No.1 has been told to leave the country today (Thursday) as a result of the decision. Djokovic arrived on Wednesday morning but has been held in detention at the airport with sources saying he has filled out the incorrect visa. It is understood that the 20-time Grand Slam champion has applied for a medical exemption to play for the Grand Slam of 2021 due to contracting Covid over the past six months which has caused a delay in him having the jab. However, the visa he filled out is understood to be the wrong one which would cover this exemption. Since then, he has been held in a room for questioning and was reportedly refused his phone for roughly three-hours during the investigation.
Djokovic’s legal team are already in the process of challenging the deportation but it is unclear as to how quick a decision will be made. Should they not strike a deal within the next 24 hours, the Serbian will have no choice but to leave the country. 11 days before the start of the Australian Open.
It is also understood that officials investigating Djokovic have cast doubt on his reasons for not having a COVID-19 vaccination, which is a requirement for all players at the Melbourne Major unless they are exempt.
The decision has sparked a massive outcry which is poised to be turned into a diplomatic dispute between Australia and Serbia. President Aleksandar Vučić spoke to Djokovic whilst he was in detention and has vowed to support him.
“In accordance with all the norms of international public law, Serbia will fight for Novak Djokovic, for justice and truth.” Vucic wrote on Instagram.
Meanwhile, the Age newspaper claims that an unnamed Tennis Australia source had told them that the decision to refuse Djokovic entry is politically driven. Insinuating that officials didn’t want to let him into the country as it would have given them a bad image.
“I don’t know how the feds will (address the fact that) several tennis players are already in the country with the same exemption granted to Novak,” the source said.
“This looks to us like the feds are responding to the media by letting some players in but not the world No.1.”
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has issued a statement saying those arriving in their country must “comply with laws and entry requirements.” They denied a claim that Djokovic didn’t have access to his phone. Something which which was claimed by several sources familiar with the situation and Djokovic’s father Srdjan.
“The ABF can confirm that Mr Djokovic failed to provide appropriate evidence to meet the entry requirements to Australia , and his visa has been subsequently cancelled,” a statement reads.
“Non – citizens who do not hold a valid visa on entry or who have had their visa cancelled – will be detained and removed from Australia.”
Tennis Australia is yet to issue an official reaction to the decision to refuse Djokovic’s visa. He has won the Australian Open men’s title a record nine times.
