Whether Novak Djokovic can play in the Australian Open starting on January 17 in Melbourne will now be decided in an Australian court. But why is the world No.1 facing such a situation? Following are a few issues explained:
• Who can claim exemption? What was the reason for granting one to Djokovic?
Victoria state, where Melbourne Park is located, mandated full vaccination for all players, staff and fans at the Australian Open unless there is a genuine medical reason. Victoria state deputy premier James Merlino had said medical exemptions would not be “a loophole for privileged tennis players”. Among the acceptable grounds were acute major medical conditions, serious adverse reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or evidence of a Covid-19 infection within the previous six months. Tennis Australia said Djokovic’s request for an exemption “was granted following a rigorous review process involving two separate independent panels of medical experts”. But the exact reason under which he sought an exemption and was granted one was never revealed.
• After being granted exemption, why was Djokovic prevented from entering Australia?
The Australian Border Force cancelled Djokovic’s visa on arrival at Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport around 11.30pm (local time) on Wednesday. The reason they gave was that he “failed to provide appropriate evidence to meet the entry requirements.” Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said at a news conference that Djokovic’s exemption wasn’t valid but did not give any details.
• Is Djokovic vaccinated? Had he ever had Covid-19?
Djokovic has refused to explicitly say whether or not he had received any shots to protect against the coronavirus. But had he been fully vaccinated, he would not have needed an exemption to enter Australia. In April 2020, he issued a statement saying: “Personally I am opposed to vaccination against Covid-19 in order to be able to travel. But if it becomes compulsory, I will have to make a decision whether to do it, or not.”
Two months later, he and his wife tested positive after a series of exhibition matches he organised.
• Why is this Australian Open important for Djokovic?
Djokovic needs just one more grand slam singles title to overtake Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and become the first man to win 21 major crowns.
• Do all tennis tournaments rule that players be vaccinated?
No. In tennis such mandates come from national, state or local governments.
• What next for Djokovic?
Djokovic has taken recourse to legal action in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia against the cancellation of his visa. The hearing will not take place before Monday.
(Written with agency inputs)