January 07, (THEWILL) – Beleaguered world number one Novak Djokovic has spoken out for the first time as he attempts to secure entry to Australia in time for the 2022 Grand Slam at Melbourne.
As THEWILL reported, Djokovic travelled to Melbourne after receiving a medical exemption to compete in the Australian Open, but his visa was denied by border officials on Wednesday.
Although he has been told he is free to leave the country, the Serb is now stuck in a Melbourne detention hotel as his legal team attempts to appeal the decision to deny him entry.
“Thank you to people around the world for your continuous support. I can feel it and it is greatly appreciated,” he wrote on Instagram Stories.
Djokovic’s post comes as Australian officials attempt to justify their own activities in the lead-up to the uproar. The government, according to acting Victorian premier Jacinta Allan, is in charge of issuing visas and determines which to issue and which not to.
“It is the Commonwealth Government … that’s responsible for issuing visas and how they engage in that dialogue with bodies like Tennis Australia is a matter for them,” Allan said. “Exemptions to play in the Australian Open are ‘very much separate from the visa process’.”
Craig Tiley, the head of Tennis Australia, was accused by Allan of knowing that a previous infection would not be enough to get Djokovic over the border.
Djokovic’s plight in Australia has elicited a mixed response. While he has received some praise, the nine-time Australian Open champion has also received some harsh criticism.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
