June 29, 2022

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‘Disillusioned’ Djokovic To Depart Australia After Courtroom Upholds Visa Cancellation

Tennis world No. 1 Novak Djokovic mentioned he was “extraordinarily disillusioned” by Australia’s determination to deport him over his coronavirus vaccination standing, however mentioned he would comply and depart the nation.

Djokovic launched an announcement on January 16, shortly after three Federal Courtroom judges unanimously upheld a choice made by Immigration Minister Alex Hawke to cancel the 34-year-old Serb’s visa on public curiosity grounds as a result of he isn’t vaccinated for COVID-19.

“I’m extraordinarily disillusioned with the courtroom ruling to dismiss my utility for judicial assessment of the minister’s determination to cancel my visa, which implies I can’t keep in Australia and take part within the Australian Open,” Djokovic mentioned.

The ruling dashes the nine-time Australian Open champion’s hopes of defending his title. He was scheduled to play in the primary stadium at night time on the primary day of the match, which begins on January 17. Australian Open organizers declined rapid touch upon the courtroom’s determination.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison welcomed the courtroom ruling, saying “this cancellation determination was made on well being, security, and good order grounds, on the idea that it was within the public curiosity to take action.”

It was not instantly clear when the federal government would search to take away Djokovic.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic mentioned he had spoken to Djokovic after the courtroom ruling was introduced. Djokovic is vastly well-liked in his dwelling nation.

“I spoke to Djokovic and advised him we can’t wait to see him,” Vucic advised reporters. “I advised him he’s all the time welcome in Serbia.”

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Djokovic was attempting to make use of a medical exemption to get across the necessities that everybody on the Australian Open — gamers, their assist groups, spectators, and others — be vaccinated towards COVID-19.

Djokovic mentioned he was “uncomfortable” that the main focus had been on him since his visa initially was canceled by border officers after his flight arrived in Melbourne on January 6.

That call was overturned by a decide on procedural grounds on January 10.

Hawke admitted that Djokovic is at “negligible” danger of infecting Australians however argued his previous “disregard” for COVID-19 rules posed a danger to public well being and discouraged folks from getting boosters simply because the nation experiences a rise in omicron infections.

Djokovic has received a complete of 20 Grand Slam singles trophies, tied with rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for probably the most within the historical past of males’s tennis.

With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, and dpa