World No.1 Novak Djokovic is isolated in a room and not allowed to use his mobile phone as he waits to learn whether or not he will be allowed into Australia, according to reports. The world No 1 flew into the country on Wednesday ahead of the Australian Open beginning on January 17 but his entry has been denied after a visa mix-up. 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.
Serbian outlet Sportklub reported that at 4 am local time, Djokovic is currently being kept alone in a room in which he is not allowed to use his phone. He has not yet been allowed through passport control. It was reported three hours later that Djokovic had had his phone returned.
“I have no idea what’s going on, they are holding my son captive for five hours. If they don’t let him go in half an hour, we will gather on the street. This is a fight for everyone.” Djokovic’s father told Serbian media in a statement read on-air on Australian news show Sunrise.
Novak Djokovic detained at the Melbourne Airport
Tennis Australia has earlier confirmed that no medical exemptions have yet been granted for the Australian Open. All players must be fully vaccinated to compete in the Grand Slam at Melbourne Park. But Djokovic has never confirmed whether or not he is vaccinated against COVID-19. Also, he has previously spoken of his opposition to someone “forcing me to put something in my body”. And with the passage of time, the chances of Djokovic participating in the Australian Open become lesser and lesser.
Victoria’s acting sports minister Jaala Pulford said on Twitter: “The Federal Government has asked if we will support Novak Djokovic’s visa application to enter Australia. We will not be providing Novak Djokovic with individual visa application support. To participate in the 2022 Australian Open Grand Slam. We’ve always been clear on two points: visa approvals are a matter for the Federal Government. And medical exemptions are a matter for doctors.”
“Now Novak Djokovic – when he arrives in Australia – he has to show his vaccination record. To be able to access the same travel arrangements as fully vaccinated travelers,” he told a media conference. 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 they have the suitable proof to support their claim in those circumstances.” said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison