Why did Australia cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa?
Before we delve deeper, let us take a look at the statement released by the Australian Border Force once they canceled Novak Djokovic's visa. They made it clear that the Serb "failed" to provide "appropriate evidence to meet entry requirements," meaning that he did not have enough evidence to prove that he was medically exempt.
Why is Novak Djokovic under Australian Border Force watch?
Novak Djokovic, the world's No. 1-ranked men's tennis player, remains under Australian Border Force (ABF) watch as of Friday while he awaits a ruling on visa. The 20-time Grand Slam winner attempted to enter Australia with a COVID-19 vaccine medical exemption for the Australian Open.
Is Novak Djokovic a polarizing figure in tennis?
Tim Jotischky, reputation management specialist at The PHA Group, believes while Novak Djokovic has always been a polarizing figure in tennis, the Australian visa row "has taken this to a new level."
What did Rafael Nadal say about Novak Djokovic?
Rafael Nadal, who is currently tied with Djokovic and Roger Federer with 20 career Grand Slam titles, also spoke to reporters on Thursday. He said: “I think if he wanted, he would be playing here in Australia without a problem. He made his own decisions, and everybody is free to take their own decisions. But then there are some consequences.”
What did the Australian Border Force say about Novak Djokovic's medical exemption?
Before we delve deeper, let us take a look at the statement released by the Australian Border Force once they canceled Novak Djokovic's visa.
Reasons why Novak Djokovic's visa could have been rejected
It is pertinent to note that the reasons for Novak Djokovic's medical exemption are still unclear.
Novak Djokovic secured a medical exemption reviewed by a panel set up by the Victorian Department of Health. Should that not suffice?
The exemption secured by Djokovic has clearly not proven to be sufficient. A panel of reviewers was directly appointed by the Victorian Department of Health, but it is pertinent to note that all applications were sent anonymously, meaning Djokovic was not given preferential treatment..
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'Given Mr Djokovic's high profile status and position as a role model in the sporting and broader community, his ongoing presence in Australia may foster similar disregard for the precautionary requirements following receipt of a positive Covid-19 test in Australia,' the immigration minister said.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC'S AUSTRALIAN OPEN SAGA
Novak Djokovic's defence of his Australian Open title remains in doubt after Australian immigration officials cancelled his visa for the second time.
Where Is Djokovic Now, and What Happens from Here?
Why Was Djokovic Given An Exemption?
- Due to privacy laws, we don't know for sure. Djokovic did test positive for the virus in June 2020, but there have been no reports of a further infection. Tiley said Djokovic received no special treatment and each application was reviewed by two independent panels with the names redacted for privacy. Tiley called it "completely legitimate applicati...
Did Anyone from Djokovic's Home Country of Serbia Get Involved?
- Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic spoke by phone to Djokovic while he was at the airport and vowed to do whatever the country could to help. Vucic posted about their conversation on Instagramshortly after. "I told our Novak that [all of] Serbia is with him, and that our authorities are taking all measures to stop the harassment of the best tennis player in the world," Vucic said in …
How Did Other Players React to The News?
- Many felt similarly to the Australian public when the initial exemption was revealed. "I think if it was me that wasn't vaccinated I wouldn't be getting an exemption," former world No. 1 doubles player Jamie Murray told reporters at the ATP Cup this week. "You know, but well done to him for getting clear to come to Australia and compete." Other players have been more sympathetic to …
What Does This Mean For The Tournament?
- Quite a bit! Djokovic has won more singles titles at the Australian Open than any other player in the Open era, and was in search of his 10th trophy in Melbourne, as well as a record-breaking 21st major title. Having narrowly and devastatingly lost the elusive Calendar Slam at the US Open in September, Djokovic was undoubtedly looking forward to returning to his favorite Slam. Djoko…