Novak Djokovic is reportedly set to be deported from Australia, after he lost an appeal to regain his visa in front of the country’s Federal Court. The player is potentially also facing a 3-year ban from entering Australia except “compelling circumstances that affect the national interest”.
He will now not be able to defend his Australian Grand Slam crown nor be able to win a record breaking 21st Grand Slam win. He was set to set to play against fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanović.
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The decision to cancel his visa for a second time was made by immigration minister Alex Hawke. His decision was than upheld by three federal court judges, on the basis of public interest grounds. Djokovic had already had his visa taken away from him but unlike this time, he won it back in a court hearing.
It is also being reported that Government lawyers were in favour of his deportation as they feared an increase of anti-vaccination influence during Australia’s worst outbreak of the Coronavirus since the pandemic began in early 2020.
In a statement made via the Australian news outlet The Age, the Serb had this to say;
“I would like to make a brief statement to address the outcomes of today’s Court hearing.”
“I will now be taking some time to rest and to recuperate, before making any further comments beyond this.”
“I am extremely disappointed with the Court ruling to dismiss my application for judicial review of the Minister’s decision to cancel my visa, which means I cannot stay in Australia and participate in the Australian Open.”
“I respect the Court’s ruling and I will cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country.”
“I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and tournament I love.”
“I would like to wish the players, tournament officials, staff, volunteers and fans all the best for the tournament.”
“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans and my fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me.”
