Novak Djokovic situation explained: Why the 20-time Grand Slam champ is being detained in Australia

Novak Djokovic, the world’s No.1-ranked men’s tennis player, remains under Australian Border Force (ABF) watch as of Friday while he awaits a ruling on visa. The 20-time Grand Slam winner attempted to enter Australia with a COVID-19 vaccine medical exemption for the Australian Open. But a court is deciding whether that tournament exemption applies to the country as well. 

Since 2020, Djokovic has repeatedly refused to divulge his vaccination status and once said he was “opposed” to vaccinations entirely. The Australian Open instituted a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for all players on Nov. 19, and Djokovic announced he received a medical exemption to compete in the event on Jan. 4. 

But after flying into the Melbourne airport on Jan. 5, ABF detained Djokovic and is now threatening deportation to his native Serbia. 

His case is currently on hold until the court adjourns Monday. Djokovic is hoping to remain in Australia for the Open, which begins Jan. 17 in Melbourne, for a shot at a record 21st Grand Slam win.

Here’s everything you need to know about his situation, beginning with the latest news: 

Jan. 6, 2022: Djokovic stays in quarantine hotel amid legal battle

In an attempt to delay his deportation from Australia, Djokovic applied for a judicial review of the country’s decision to cancel his visa. Federal Circuit Court Judge Anthony Kelly said he’s yet to receive the application for a review of Djokovic’s visa, meaning the earliest Djokovic can be deported is Monday – when the case returns to court. 

According to ESPN, Nick Wood, Djokovic’s barrister, requested the government not deport Djokovic until his case is fully decided. The judge opposed that idea, saying Djokovic could theoretically file “a cascading series of appeals” to remain in Australia for as long as he wants. 

The issue regarding Djokovic’s visa seems to be the specifics of his COVID-19 vaccine medical…