Novak Djokovic in conversation during the press conference of the upcoming Adria Tour. (Getty Images)
World No.1 Novak Djokovic is set to be deported from Australia following losing his appeal against visa cancellation
After a 10 day rollercoaster of legal wranglings, three judges have decided on Novak Djokovic’s final presence in the country for the Australian Open.
The decision by the Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke to cancel Djokovic’s visa is being upheld now. As a result, world no.1 is enforced by imminent deportation from Australia, resulting in a three-year ban from entering the country.
Djokovic lost his appeal against the Court following Visa cancellation. The tennis superstar has not been vaccinated against Covid-19, which requires foreigners entering the country.
This is what Djokovic had to say following the verdict (h/t BBC News)
“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.”
“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans, and fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me.”
Fans are really disappointed about the verdict. However, a few people are for the decision, such as Piers Morgan, who has claimed Djokovic as a ‘Cheat’ and ‘Liar’.
“Covid rule cheat, immigration form liar, & anti-vaxxer icon Novak Djokovic loses final appeal against deportation & will be thrown out of Australia without being able to compete in Aus Open. Good.”
Court reporter Karen Sweeney also confirmed the news on Twitter.
“Novak Djokovic has LOST his Federal Court Case. The decision was unanimous.”
Another renowned reporter and podcaster, Ben Rothenberg, also had his say on deporting Djokovic.
“Djokovic’s application to have his visa cancellation overturned is to be “dismissed with costs.” Djokovic loses. He now has no Australian visa, and will be deported. The nine-time #AusOpen champion will have to leave Australia in short order.”
Twitterati were divided on the Djokovic vaccine conundrum. Here are some of the fan reactions:
Djokovic’s removal from the Australian Open means that only one from the big 3 will be taking part – Rafael Nadal.
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