Novak Djokovic intends to pursue a 10th Australian Open title as the first tennis major of the year begins on Monday. But before the Serbian player can turn his attention to breaking a 20-Grand Slam singles titles tie with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, the world’s top-ranked men’s player must first resolve his ongoing visa saga.
The 34-year-old, who is one major final win from claiming the men’s record, still risks the chance of deportation.
Djokovic’s visa was canceled upon his arrival to Melbourne, Australia, last week when his vaccination exemption was questioned, but he has since won a legal battle on procedural grounds allowing him to stay in the country.
However, the opportunity to defend his Australian Open title is anything but a given as the immigration minister could still send him home.
The latest twist in the saga over whether the athlete should be allowed to stay in Australia despite not being vaccinated revolves around the revelation that he provided false information on an immigration form — which could be grounds for deportation.
As the tournament start draws nearer and Djokovic’s status remains unresolved, here is a timeline of the events that led us to this point:
Jan. 13, 2022: Djokovic slated to open title defense against Kecmanovic
After a delayed draw ceremony — a tournament official declines to comment to media on why the start time is pushed back — it is revealed that Djokovic will face fellow Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic in the first round of the Australian Open, if he’s allowed to play.
According to the 2022 Grand Slam Rule Book, if Djokovic is forced to pull out of the tournament before the order of play for Day 1 is announced, No. 5 seed Andrey Rublev would move into his spot in the bracket.
Jan. 12, 2022: Djokovic clarifies COVID-19 timeline; acknowledges ‘administrative mistake’
Djokovic’s most extensive public comments on the events that have transpired in Australia…
Source : espn
