Australian Open: Novak Djokovic To Face Arrest & Deportation Despite Winning Appeal

Thus, from the way things look, Novak Djokovic might not be able to defend his Australian Open title this year. 

Image: AFP

Despite an Australian court ruling in favor of Novak Djokovic, the Serbian will have to face arrest and deportation. As per Australian rules, the immigration minister, Alex Hawke can personally overturn the decision to revoke the Serbian's visa cancellation. 

The Mirror reported that the Australian government is planning to do exactly that and overturn the judge's ruling in Djokovic's case. Some people are looking at this move as an attempt by the Australian PM Scott Morrison before the federal elections in the country. 

Thus, from the way things look, Novak Djokovic might not be able to defend his Australian Open title this year. 

Ivica Dacic, the president of the National Assembly of Serbia, said: "Every country has the discretionary right to deny entry to someone, but it has almost never been about famous people as it is now about Novak Djokovic. It is something that is rarely seen. In general, this procedure is shameful and there must be reactions from our side."

Novak Djokovic has won the case in the court against his deportation from Australia. The Serbian had spent four nights in an Australian immigration detention hotel.

Earlier, world No. 1 landed in trouble for his stand on the Covid-19 vaccine. His Australia visa was canceled as he failed to comply with the vaccination rules, but after this ruling, Djokovic will be able to participate in the upcoming Australian Open. 

 Djokovic had earlier said that he will be heading to the 2022 Australian Open after receiving a 'medical exemption'. "I've spent fantastic quality time with my loved ones over the break and today I'm heading Down Under with an exemption permission. Let's go 2022!" the defending Australian Open champion said on Instagram.