Novak saga makes racket
NOVAK Djokovic is facing an uphill battle to retain his title as the world’s best tennis player if other countries hosting grand slams this year follow Australia’s strict approach to unvaccinated travellers.
The Serbian was slapped with a three-year ban from Australia after a decision to revoke his visa was sensationally upheld by the Federal Court.
The outcome has sparked outrage from Djokovic’s family and Serbian authorities, prompting concerns about the bilateral relationship.
But Scott Morrison has left the door open to reviewing any future visa applications from the tennis star before the ban lifts in 2025.
Djokovic’s unvaccinated status and visa cancellation are expected to raise red flags at immigration desks across the globe – with the saga attracting front-page attention worldwide as he attempts to become the first male to win 21 grand slam titles.
While he may be free to play at the French Open in May, Djokovic could be required to isolate for 10 days ahead of Wimbledon in June if he cannot obtain a medical exemption.
The US Open in September could also present some hurdles, with the country requiring all international arrivals to show proof of vaccination, or have a documented medical contra-indication such as anaphylaxis.
The Prime Minister on Monday gave the 34-year-old no guarantees that he would be back competing for his 10th Australian Open title before the ban ended.
“I’m not going to sort of precondition any of that or say anything that would not enable the minister to make the various calls they have to make,” Mr Morrison said.
“It does go over a three-year period, but there is the opportunity for them to return in the right circumstances and that would be considered at the time,” he added.
Mr Morrison said idea that the tennis star could come to Australia and not follow the rules was “just not on”.
But opposition immigration spokeswoman Kristina Keneally said: “Mr Morrison can’t pretend he’s tough on Novak Djokovic, and then go weak when he’s got people like (Coalition MP) George Christensen and (Nationals) Senator (Matt) Canavan undermining our vaccine rollout.”
Health Minister Greg Hunt was also asked why the government had not reined in Coalition MPs, including Senator Alex Antic, for their anti-vax rhetoric. “On multiple occasions, we’ve said that we disagree with anybody, anywhere with an anti-vaccination sentiment,” Mr Hunt said.