Tennis star Novak Djokovic can hope to take part in the Australian Open despite his insufficient vaccination status. According to a media report, the Australian government wants to lift its entry ban.
The 21-time Grand Slam tournament winner will receive a visa from the Australian government, the “Guardian Australia” reported on Tuesday (November 15, 2022). The paper understands that Immigration Secretary Andrew Giles will grant the Serbian tennis star a visa, lifting a three-year ban that accompanied the previous government’s decision.
Djokovic: “We’re waiting”
Djokovic, who was not vaccinated against the corona virus, had to leave the country after entering the Australian Open in January of this year after a legal dispute.
Djokovic told reporters on Monday evening after his opening win at the ATP Finals that he hadn’t heard anything official. “We’re waiting. They’re communicating with the Australian government,” the 35-year-old said of members of his team. “That’s all I can say right now.”
Tournament director Tiley: “No preferential treatment
Tournament director Craig Tiley was confident that Djokovic would be able to take part in the first Grand Slam tournament of the year again next January. He pointed out that there is a normal application process for a visa.
“I think there shouldn’t be any preferential treatment for anyone. But I expect to have an answer in time for everyone to book the flights and get into the country, including Novak.”
After the Australian Open, Djokovic also missed the US Open in August this year because he was not allowed to enter the USA without being vaccinated. The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tournament of the year, will take place in Melbourne from January 16th to 29th.