Australian government cancels Djokovic’s visa

SYDNEY — The Australian government has canceled the visa of tennis star Novak Djokovic, authorities confirmed on Thursday.

The decision comes just days before the Australian Open is set to begin in Melbourne.

Djokovic was detained at a Melbourne airport for several hours following his arrival in Australia on Wednesday after the Australian Border Force (ABF) raised concerns over his entry visa.

The world No. 1 said he had a COVID-19 vaccination exemption, allowing him to compete in the event. Djokovic has been told that he will now have to leave Australia on Thursday. He is expected to appeal the decision.

“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 canceled,” the

ABF said in a statement.

“Mr. Djokovic's visa has been canceled,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in a tweet.

“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 has consistently declined to reveal his vaccination status.