Novak Djokovic Might Be Deported Amid Anti-Vax Backlash

Novak Djokovic, a world-class men’s tennis player, had his visa to enter Australia revoked amid huge backlash over his vaccine exemption. He was detained by Australian border officials as he did not meet entry rules. Djokovic is now at risk for being deported.

Novak Djokovic is now trapped in a Melbourne hotel after being held at the city’s airport for nine hours on Wednesday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced that he will play at the Australian Open while travelling to Australia with an “exemption permission” on January 4. Djokovic admitted last year that he was “opposed” to vaccination.

The player was granted medical exemption by two independent medical panels organized by Tennis Australia, a body that manages the Australian Open. The exception infuriated citizens as the country is seeing a surge in Covid-19 cases. Subsequently, Australia’s Border Force revoked Djokovic’s visa right after he landed.

Djokovic is yet to speak publicly about his vaccination status. His team challenged the Australian Border Force’s decision. The hearing will be held at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia on Monday.

Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison denies claims that Djokovic is being singled out. Morrison reiterated that no one was above the country’s rules. Djokovic’s attendance is quite a big deal to the sport as he has won the Aussie Open nine times.

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