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Novak Djokovic's Australian Open hangs in the balance after visa appeal

Novak Djokovic deported

World number one has been allowed to stay in Melbourne until Monday, when a decision will be made about his eligibility to play in the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic is still unsure whether he'll be allowed to defend his Australian Open title this month, with the Serbian star being made to wait until Monday before the Australian court makes a decision on his visa.

The Australian government stated last year that all players must be fully vaccinated to enter the country, although they would make some medical examptions available in special cases.

Djokovic travelled to Australia on Wednesday believing he was one such case, but he found himself detained at the airport for hours while the legitimacy of his claims were checked.

Initially, it was decided the world number one had not provided sufficient evidence to support his medical exemption and his visa was cancelled.

However, the tennis star has since lodged an appeal, which has been adjourned by the Australian court until 10am on Monday.

"The Australian Border Force will continue to ensure that those who arrive at our border comply with our laws and entry requirements." an ABF statement read.
"The ABF can confirm that Mr Djokovic failed to provide appropriate evidence to meet the entry requirements to Australia, and his visa has been subsequently cancelled.
"Non-citizens who do not hold a valid visa on entry or who have had their visa cancelled will be detained and removed from Australia.
"The ABF can confirm Mr Djokovic had access to his phone."

With the appeal being processed, Djokovic has been told he will be allowed to remain in Melbourne until a decision is made on Monday.

It's looking as though his appeal will be without success though, with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison publicly backing the decision to revoke his visa.

"Mr Djokovic's visa has been cancelled," Morrison tweeted. "Rules are rules, especially when it comes to our borders.
"No one is above these rules. Our strong border policies have been critical to Australia having one of the lowest death rates in the world from COVID, we are continuing to be vigilant."
Djokovic is a nine-time Australian Open champion and another victory in Melbourne this year would have seen him surpass Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the race for the most career major titles.

ALSO READ: Deportation, defaults and more - Five recent Novak Djokovic controversies

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