Small protest outside Novak’s detention hotel
MELBOURNE: As rain pelts the crowd outside a Melbourne detention centre believed to be housing Novak Djokovic, shouts of “free Novak” alternate with “free refugees” as fans stand alongside activists and anti-vaccine protesters.
The vaccine-sceptic tennis ace was held after arrival in Australia this week–his visa revoked for failing to meet the country’s tough pandemic restrictions.
In the crowd of about 50 people that gathered for a second day of protest Friday, some displayed larger-than-life posters of the star while others held antivaccine placards and another group called “Grandmothers for Refugees” voiced support for detained migrants.
Draped in flags and playing nationalistic songs, some Serbians celebrated Orthodox Christmas Day at the protest.
“He’s our blood, we are supporting our nation. He’s not getting a Christmas and is stuck in a detention centre,” said Djokovic supporter Tara Aksentijevic.
Fellow fan Sash Aleksic echoed the views of some antigovernment protesters in the crowd who oppose Australia’s Covid-19 policies.
“Our human rights have gone out the window... and they (are) using the medical excuses.”
One man held up an anti-vaccine poster that read: “Free the Novax legend”.
In retaliation against the antivaccine protesters, a group named the Campaign Against Racism and Fascism (CARF) arrived, showing support for asylum seekers.
“Because of his wealth and status, Novak was almost able to bypass the important public health measure. The refugees are innocent and Djokovic isn’t,” said 27-year-old Zak Borzovoy of CARF. Djokovic supporters attempted to confront the group, but police intervened, forming a line to separate them.
Aleksic defended the ninetime Australian Open champion.
“You know, a lot of people don’t like him, and they have their right to not like him. But what’s he really done? They reckon he’s arrogant because what, because he wins?”
It is unclear how long Djokovic–who has declared himself against vaccines and claimed to have an exemption–will be held.
A court is set to hear his legal challenge against his visa cancellation on Monday.