Novak Djokovic’s entry to Australia has been denied on Wednesday after a visa mix-up, according to reports. This comes after the Serbian was given a controversial medical exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination. Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open titles, including the last three. He is in a three-way tie on 20 major titles with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal.
Earlier, Tennis Australia has confirmed no medical exemptions have yet been granted for the Australian Open. All players must have a full vaccination record to compete in the Grand Slam at Melbourne Park. World number one Novak Djokovic has not revealed his own vaccination status, he has previously spoken of his opposition to someone “forcing me to put something in my body”.
Australian PM warns Novak Djokovic could be ‘on next plane home’ amid vaccine exemption saga
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that if the reasons for Djokovic’s exemption were ‘insufficient’ then the Serbian would be ‘on the next plane home.
“Now Novak Djokovic – when he arrives in Australia – he has to show his vaccination record. He must provide acceptable proof that he cannot be vaccination for medical reasons. To be able to access the same travel arrangements as fully vaccinated travelers,” he told a media conference.
“So we await his presentation and what evidence he provides us to support that. There should be no special rules for Novak Djokovic at all. None whatsoever. There are other cases – there is quite a number over the last couple of years. People have had these exemptions and have the suitable proof to support their claim in those circumstances.” he added