Novak Djokovic returns to Australia to play in the Australian Open

[James]

<b>BBC — Novak Djokovic: Australia loses bid to delay tennis star's visa appeal.</b>

A bid by the Australian government to delay Novak Djokovic's appeal against deportation has been rejected by a judge overseeing his case.

The government had requested the tennis star's court hearing be postponed until Wednesday, but it will instead begin as scheduled on Monday morning.

Djokovic was denied entry to Australia after landing in Melbourne last week to defend his Australian Open title.

His case has caused a huge outcry and made headlines around the world.

The world number one men's tennis player - who has said he is opposed to vaccination - is in an immigration detention centre as his lawyers prepare to appeal against a decision by Australia's federal government to cancel his visa.

Djokovic, 34, had been granted a medical exemption to play in the Australian Open tournament in a decision that infuriated many ordinary Australians who have been living under some of the world's strictest Covid rules.

On Saturday, Djokovic's lawyers submitted a 35-page document arguing that their client fulfilled the criteria for a vaccine exemption certificate because of a recent Covid infection, which was confirmed by a PCR test on 16 December.

But the Australian government has insisted that a recent infection only offers an exemption for residents.

It appears that Djokovic's lawyers will effectively tell the court that the decision to revoke the visa was affected by a variety of "jurisdictional errors".

There had been no prior announcement of Djokovic's Covid infection, and photos have since emerged of the player apparently attending events in the Serbian capital Belgrade maskless at around the time he tested positive.

It is unclear whether he knew he had Covid when the photos were taken.

His lawyers have said he was kept at the immigration control point at Melbourne Airport for about eight hours after he arrived, and that he had little communication with them during that period.

On Sunday, a court order by Judge Anthony Kelly stated that the request to delay the hearing until 12 January had been "refused without prejudice" and that submissions must be presented to the court at 10:00 local time on Monday (23:00 GMT Sunday).

Last week, Tennis Australia said it would need to know whether Djokovic was participating in the Australian Open so that it could schedule his games in the competition.

While he awaits a final decision, Djokovic's lawyers have asked he be moved from the immigration detention hotel that has often been criticised by refugees for its poor conditions where he is currently being held, to "a more suitable place of detention" that would allow him to train ahead of the Australian Open.

Australia's pandemic border rules ban foreigners from entering the country if they are not either double vaccinated or have a medical exemption from having the jabs.

While foreigners can fly in to Australia on a visa applied for online, they must still clear immigration customs on arrival at the airport.
The Australian Open begins on 17 January in Melbourne.

— — —

 

[MenInG]

Andy Murray says he is dismayed at Novak Djokovic's struggle to gain entry to Australia, saying it is "really not good for tennis at all".

Djokovic was denied entry to the country on arriving for the Australian Open in a row over vaccine rules, and is now appealing against deportation.

The world number one is currently in an immigration detention centre.

"I think everyone is shocked by it," said Murray, who will also play at the tournament, which starts on 17 January.

"I'm going to say two things on it just now. The first thing is that I hope that Novak is OK. I know him well, and I've always had a good relationship with him and I hope that he's OK.

"The second thing: it's really not good for tennis at all and I don't think it's good for anyone involved. I think it's really bad."

Djokovic's court hearing will begin at 10:00 local time (23:00 GMT Sunday) after a bid by the Australian government to delay his appeal against deportation was rejected.

Briton Murray's comments come after Australian player Nick Kyrgios said his country's handling of the dispute had been "really bad".

But Rafael Nadal said Djokovic could be playing "without a problem" if he had wanted to.

Shaimaa Khalil reports from Melbourne's Park Hotel on the latest twist in the Djokovic visa row
Australia's pandemic border rules ban foreigners from entering the country if they are not either double vaccinated or have a medical exemption from having the jabs.

While foreigners can fly in to Australia on a visa applied for online, they must still clear immigration customs on arrival at the airport.

Djokovic - who has said he is opposed to vaccination - was initially given a medical exemption to play in the Australian Open, prompting an outcry from many who have been living under strict Covid rules in the country.

When the 34-year-old arrived in Melbourne, Australia's federal government cancelled his visa. Now Djokovic's lawyers are appealing on the basis that he fulfils the criteria for a vaccine exemption because of a recent coronavirus infection.

The lawyers say this was confirmed by a PCR test on 16 December but the Australian government insists only residents qualify for this exemption.

Photographs on Djokovic's social media appear to show the player attending events in Belgrade, Serbia's capital, around the time of his positive test.

While he awaits a final decision, Djokovic's lawyers have asked he be moved from the immigration detention hotel where he is being held to "a more suitable place of detention" that would allow him to train before the Australian Open.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/59929031

 

[Gilly]

Djokovic chose to go into a isolation hotel, he did not have to stay in Australia and could have boarded a plane to anywhere in the world and booked himself into a $5000 a night hotel while his lawyers fought his case. He has been offered the opportunity to leave Australia at anytime by borders officers but chooses to stay in the isolation hotel.

 

[Last Monetarist]

Djokovic chose to go into a isolation hotel, he did not have to stay in Australia and could have boarded a plane to anywhere in the world and booked himself into a $5000 a night hotel while his lawyers fought his case. He has been offered the opportunity to leave Australia at anytime by borders officers but chooses to stay in the isolation hotel.

So you think it's a political stunt, deliberately trying to become a martyr? I won't be surprised if it is.

 

[Gilly]

So you think it's a political stunt, deliberately trying to become a martyr? I won't be surprised if it is.

He does have form on that front.

Novak Djokovic slammed by Epidemiologist Predrag Kon for misguiding people
Novak Djokovic's stance against a vaccine has been heavily criticised amidst the outbreak of coronavirus in Serbia. Djokovic courted controversy after suggesting that he could delay a return to tennis if players have to compulsorily administer a vaccine. Djokovic has a strong interest in scientific and spiritual subjects and has previously spoken of his inclination for natural healing as opposed to conventional medicine. Djokovic's wife Jelena also holds what many consider to be an 'unconventional view' after she shared a video supporting the notion that coronavirus could be spread via 5G technology.

The World No.1's comments drew the ire of Serbia's top scientist Predrag Kon, who believes Djokovic's stand could have a huge impact on people batting coronavirus in Serbia. In a Facebook post, Predag Kon slammed Novak Djokovic for creating misconceptions regarding vaccines. Predrag Kon added he wished he had an opportunity to have a chat with Djokovic earlier to explain the significance and enormous contribution of immunisations to the health of the Serbian population. While Novak Djokovic hasn't ruled out taking the coronavirus vaccine, he said that he would not be comfortable with it.
https://www.republicworld.com/sport...isguiding-people-against-vaccines-serbia.html

 

[James]

Djokovic has a strong interest in scientific and spiritual subjects and has previously spoken of his inclination for natural healing as opposed to conventional medicine. Djokovic's wife Jelena also holds what many consider to be an 'unconventional view' after she shared a video supporting the notion that coronavirus could be spread via 5G technology.

Oh dear me.

 

[KingKhanWC]

If compare our deaths to our nearest neighbour NZ it doesn't look as good, they had 10 deaths per million with all the same restrictions such as closed borders etc.
Plus we are not a healthier country we have a huge obesity problem and rank in the top 5 I believe.

Agree but my point was there is no exact formula for why some nations are having more deaths than others. Australia cannot claim its strong lockdowns have helped save lives.

 

[Salma_T]

Agree but my point was there is no exact formula for why some nations are having more deaths than others. Australia cannot claim its strong lockdowns have helped save lives.

It was border closure. 14 quarantine of all arrivals, coupled with lockdowns is what saved lives it wasn't allowed to rip, as we pursued a Covid 0 strategy.

 

[MenInG]

Novak Djokovic’s visa cancellation quashed, tennis star to be released from detention

The decision to cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa has been quashed by the Federal Circuit Court, and he will be freed from immigration detention.

On Monday afternoon, Judge Anthony Kelly read out a minute agreed to by both Djokovic and the government, which ordered the government to pay Djokovic’s costs and release him from detention within 30 minutes.

Djokovic’s passport and personal effects must be returned to him.

The world’s top male tennis player — who is unvaccinated — thought he’d successfully received a medical exemption to enter the country but he was turned around by the Australian Border Force when he touched down in Melbourne last week.

Djokovic has since been holed up in a detention hotel as he waited for his lawyers to have the chance to argue his case to remain in Australia and chase his 10th title at Melbourne Park.

In a submission to the Federal Circuit Court, Djokovic’s lawyers said he contracted Covid-19 in December, which was the basis for his exemption application. But there has been confusion over whether being infected with the virus in the past six months was a valid reason to receive an exemption from being vaccinated.

At about 5:15pm, as court resumed, Judge Anthony Kelly read out a minute agreed to by both Novak Djokovic and the government, which quashed the decision to revoke the player’s visa.

The government was ordered to pay the tennis player’s costs and release him from detention within 30 minutes. Djokovic’s passport and personal effects must be returned to him as well.

Judge Kelly said the decision to cancel Djokovic’s visa under Section 116 of the Migration Act was “unreasonable” because he’d been told, at 5:20am on the morning of January 6, that he could have until 8:30am to respond to officials.

The decision to cancel Djokovic’s visa happened before that deadline, at 7:42am. Judge Kelly said that robbed Djokovic of time he could have used to “consult others” and make further submissions about “why his visa should not be cancelled”.

The hearing was adjourned for lunch shortly after 2pm and was expected to restart at 3.15pm AEDT. However, that was pushed back until 3.45pm.

The injunction preventing the Australian government from deporting Djokovic was due to expire at 4pm on Monday but when the hearing resumed, Judge Anthony Kelly agreed to extend the injunction on his deportation until 8pm.

Shortly after that decision was confirmed, the court was temporarily adjourned again.

Meanwhile, the Herald Sun reports Djokovic has left the hotel he was being detained in to join his legal team at another premises for the hearing.

On Monday Judge Kelly ordered Australian Border Force to allow the tennis star out of immigration detention at the Park Hotel in Carlton so he can view the hearing at another location.

Although allowed of his hotel for the hearing, Djokovic remains in detention and will return at the end of today’s proceedings.

Ongoing issues with the live stream of Novak Djokovic’s court hearing today have meant the world’s top male tennis player has been unable to watch the proceedings.

On Monday afternoon, Federal Circuit Court Judge Anthony Kelly made an order that Australian Border Force must allow Djokovic out of immigration detention at the Park Hotel in Carlton so he can view the hearing at another location.

“The respondent, by her servants or agents, including the Australian Border Force, take all steps and do all things as may be necessary to bring the applicant to premises as specified by the applicant’s solicitors on Monday, 10 January 2022 (and each day thereafter, including upon the delivery of judgment), to permit him to remain there until the conclusion of each hearing and to secure his safe return to detention upon the conclusion of each hearing,” the order reads.

The court’s live feed paused before midday on Monday after being overwhelmed by users trying to tune in.

Monday’s hearing was accidentally interrupted by a member of the public, who joined the live stream but was not on mute. “We’re in,” the person said, prompting a rebuke from Judge Anthony Kelly.

“Can I ask whoever is on screen to mute themselves. There is every importance that the only people who should be online with their microphones are those who are making submissions to the court,” Judge Kelly said.

“Any other behaviour by any person who may be wishing to watch this live will produce a very real risk that the bandwidth available for this hearing will be overwhelmed and the hearing will be interrupted and that is utterly unacceptable.”

Shortly after the interruption there was a big moment when Judge Kelly made poignant comments about Djokovic. He told the court the Serbian was right to assume his medical exemption was valid.

“The status attached to this medical exemption ... the applicant in this case ... can be assumed not to be a specialist medical practitioner. It would be, you’d think absurd, that a person could issue a medical exemption to themselves,” Judge Kelly said.

“The evidence seems to underline a relatively significant fact, particularly in context of a cancellation of a visa.

“Here, a professor and a physician have produced and provided to (Djokovic) a medical exemption. Further to that, that medical exemption and the basis on which it was given, was given by a (panel) established by the Victorian Government.

“That document was in the hands of the delegate. The point I am somewhat agitated about is what more could this man have done?”

Djokovic’s lawyer said his client understood that he “had ticked every box”.

Novak Djokovic’s lawyer Nick Wood SC is arguing the Notice of Intention to Consider Cancellation of his client’s Visa is “defective” because it included a typo.

Lawyers for the Department of Home Affairs acknowledged in court filings on Sunday that a typo existed in the document but that it was insignificant.

They said the “unfortunate typo” is “unfortunate but immaterial”.

But in court on Monday, Mr Wood said it mattered. “It is more than a typo. The notice was defective," he said.

The court also hears Djokovic begged authorities to let him use his phone after it had been confiscated at Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport.

“If you will let me talk to people although you’ve taken my phone from me I will try and get you what you want,” he said, according to Judge Anthony Kelly.

Djokovic’s lawyer Nick Wood said his client did everything to provide authorities with documentation.

“Mr Djokovic was doing his level best to provide material to the officer at Tullamarine. Mr Djokovic did provide that evidence (in Dubai) before he boarded that aircraft,” he said.

There was a strange moment when court was temporarily adjourned shortly before 11.30am AEDT. Djokovic’s lawyer was stopped in his tracks mid-sentence for an unknown reason. The adjournment was only brief though, and normal proceedings continued.

Tech dramas have plagued the start of the hearing.

Members of the public were supposed to be able to watch and listen to proceedings via a secure link but that was not working at 10am AEDT.

It was suggested on social media the amount of people wanting to watch via the link may have caused disruptions.

An old audio/visual link that was sent out previously was reportedly working, but those on the call could allegedly be heard because they were not muted.

Australian journalist Sarah Dankert tweeted: “While there’s a public broadcast, there’s an old teams link that is still working for the Djokovic case and the court official is gone after having trouble with mute all. We’ve had techno blasting, giggling, shouting and someone is just saying Nole repeatedly in a pained voice.”

The court is aware of the tech issues and is looking into it. The hearing was delayed before getting underway around 10.30am AEDT.

However, even once it started, the live link still wasn’t working — meaning nobody outside the court knew what was happening.

https://www.news.com.au/sport/tenni...n/news-story/ec608e63f4a8cff508230539e493e3d5

 

[MenInG]

Live updates as Novak Djokovic wins Australian court battle against deportation; immigration minister Alex Hawke now considering whether to exercise a "personal power" of cancellation.

 

[ahsan17]

This is a strange case for me - all my life I've heard that you have no right to be in a country you are not a citizen of, and there's no re-course if you get denied entry other than just trying again. This case seems to go against all of that.

 

[silentkiller187]

Apparently hes been released from detention but then arrested by Police, this whole fiasco is becoming a farce and not good look for all involved.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Novak Djokovic saga has inadvertently shone a spotlight on Australia’s treatment of refugees after the tennis star was detained alongside dozens of asylum seekers at a Melbourne hotel, some of whom have spent years confined to their hotel rooms. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/abc730?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#abc730</a></p>— abc730 (@abc730) <a href="https://twitter.com/abc730/status/1480463345647972353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened,I want to stay and try to compete <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> <br>I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. &#55357;&#56391; <a href="https://t.co/iJVbMfQ037">pic.twitter.com/iJVbMfQ037</a></p>— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1480529173789696001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[MenInG]

The Djokovic family faced a flurry of questions from the press about the player testing positive for Covid on December 16 and attending events in the days that followed.

Djokovic is under scrutiny after legal documents showed he tested positive for Covid-19 on 16 December, yet still attended indoor public gatherings, including one with a large group of children, in the days that followed.

Asked about his actions, the player's family did not respond, instead announcing that the press conference was adjourned.
The conference ended with the family linking arms and singing a song with patriotic lyrics: "I am coming from Serbia, never leaving it."

Asked if the family have a message for Australia, Novak Djokovic's brother Djordje says they have "nothing but love" for the country.
"We have just pure love for all of the world," he says.

"We love Australia, Novak loves Australia, he's won it so many times, we will keep on coming back," he adds.

He confirms that his brother will not be joining the press conference via video link, as had been suggested earlier, because he is on a tennis court in Melbourne.

Djokovic’s mother Dijana says her son "suffered torture".

His father Srdjan says Novak had his "human rights taken away", saying he was not allowed to have contact with friends, his team or his lawyers.

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison said earlier on Monday that Djokovic was treated "the same as everyone else".

"There are no special rules for tennis players or anyone else," he said.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Disgrace

 

[Technics 1210]

On one side it has now been proven that Australian government are indeed selective and racists for that matter. Recall the Afghan refugee spinner that was fast tracked through immigration just so he could legally play for Australia (cannot remember his name).

On the other side this is a victory for freedom. An individual has the birth right to decide what is injected into a divine given body.

To state - I am not a fan of Novak.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Djokovic family news conference finished abruptly after Novak's brother was questioned about the postive COVID test Novak got on December 16th, which was revealed in court. &#55357;&#56391; <a href="https://t.co/wLdkqXbeg1">pic.twitter.com/wLdkqXbeg1</a></p>— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1480540755076730885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Salma_T]

On one side it has now been proven that Australian government are indeed selective and racists for that matter. Recall the Afghan refugee spinner that was fast tracked through immigration just so he could legally play for Australia (cannot remember his name).

On the other side this is a victory for freedom. An individual has the birth right to decide what is injected into a divine given body.

To state - I am not a fan of Novak.

His citizenship was rushed through he was already a permanent residence it is not the same. What it does show how people without money cannot challenge the ABF.

The right decision was made as the ABF didn't follow the process and if they didn't want him in the country they should never have given him a visa.....as we have known his anti vaccine stance from the start!

 

[James]

<b>BBC — Novak Djokovic's visa controversy 'damaging on all fronts' - ATP</b>

The controversy over Novak Djokovic's Australian visa application has been "damaging on all fronts", the men's professional tennis tour has said.

The ATP also called for more clarity of the rules to enter Australia and urged players to get vaccinated.

Djokovic left an immigration detention hotel on Monday after his visa cancellation was overturned in court.

But Australia's immigration minister still has powers to re-cancel the visa and deport the unvaccinated player.

"Complications in recent days related to player entry into Australia have... highlighted the need for clearer understanding, communication and application of the rules," said an ATP statement.

"In travelling to Melbourne, it's clear Novak Djokovic believed he had been granted a necessary medical exemption in order to comply with entry regulations.

"The series of events leading to Monday's court hearing have been damaging on all fronts, including for Novak's well-being and preparation for the Australian Open."

Serbia's Prime Minister Ana Brnabic spoke with Australian counterpart Scott Morrison in a call on Monday and emphasised Djokovic's need for good training conditions, local media reported.

Mr Morrison's office said in a statement he'd had a "constructive call". Neither leader commented on whether Djokovic could still be deported.

Following his release, Serbia's Djokovic, 34, posted a photo of himself and his team - including coach Goran Ivanisevic - on court at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, where he has won a record nine Australian Open men's singles titles.

This year's tournament begins on 17 January and if Djokovic wins, he will become the most successful men's player in history.

The world number one is tied with Switzerland's Roger Federer and Spain's Rafael Nadal on 20 Grand Slam singles titles.

Though Djokovic has not spoken publicly about his vaccination status, in his interview with border officials he confirms he is not vaccinated.

He told the interviewer that he tested positive for Covid twice - in June 2020 and on 16 December 2021. Copies of his positive PCR tests were provided to the interviewer - one was issued on the 16 December 2021, a day before Djokovic appeared at public events without a mask.

The ATP added: "More broadly, ATP continues to strongly recommend vaccination for all players on the ATP Tour, which we believe is essential for our sport to navigate the pandemic.

"This is based on scientific evidence supporting the health benefits provided and to comply with global travel regulations, which we anticipate will become stricter over time.

"We are encouraged that 97% of the top 100 players are vaccinated leading into this year's Australian Open."

Nadal called the build-up to the Australian Open a "circus".

"Justice has spoken and has said that he [Djokovic] has the right to participate in the Australian Open and I think it is the fairest decision," Nadal told the Spanish radio station Onda Cero.

Czech player Renata Voracova had her visa cancelled after travelling to Australia.

The Czech government said Voracova entered Australia on a valid exemption. Like Djokovic, she had contracted Covid-19 recently.

The Australian government said on Friday that a recent infection does not mean a foreign national can travel to the country without being fully vaccinated.

"Hopefully he can play. Because that is what we went there for: to play tennis and not be part of any inside games," said Voracova.

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

Well What an embarrassment overall for the Liberal Government and Scott Morrison. He let his rich mates in and let them enjoy special conditions for entry.
General Public is really Angry and he thought Djokovich can be made example. A spectacular backfire.
But, one thing I must admire, the Judiciary in Australia is independent.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Are these facts true? As I’ve read so many different reports in this messy embarrassing saga.<br>Novak tested positive to covid Dec 16 & attended a public event on the 17th that inc children. <br>Said he hadn’t travelled in 14 days before arriving in Oz but travelled Jan 2 to Spain ?</p>— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1480763959191900160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">And did Novak have a medical exemption ? If so - has the person who gave it to him been identified ? What was that exemption ? Just trying to get the facts as I’m embarrassed as a Victorian at this situation. Vic Govt are quiet ? Can someone explain to us in plain Eng please &#55357;&#56397;</p>— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1480766569194000386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[bones]

Well What an embarrassment overall for the Liberal Government and Scott Morrison. He let his rich mates in and let them enjoy special conditions for entry.
General Public is really Angry and he thought Djokovich can be made example. A spectacular backfire.
But, one thing I must admire, the Judiciary in Australia is independent.

Provided that the government isn't able to go over the judiciary, which it appears it can then it's not a system to admire.

 

[Technics 1210]

So Novak lied on his entry form; of course he will blame others.

Ban him, boot him out on the grounds he lied.

 

[Giannis]

Lying on a visa application gets you banned for life in America, so many people of color have been permanently banned from ever entering the US and I'm sure it's the case in every other western country, will Australia enforce its laws or is Novak gonna get special treatment? He's literally committed perjury.

 

[GenericBrand]

This is a strange case for me - all my life I've heard that you have no right to be in a country you are not a citizen of, and there's no re-course if you get denied entry other than just trying again. This case seems to go against all of that.

Lol my thoughts exactly.

Such a strange event.

 

[Firebat]

Novak Djokovic still has questions to answer, says Andy Murray

Andy Murray says it is "positive" that Novak Djokovic has been released from detention in Australia but the Serb still has "a few questions" to answer.

World number one Djokovic, 34, won a court battle that overturned his visa cancellation on Monday, a week before the Australian Open is set to start.

But Australian border officials are investigating whether his travel entry form included a false declaration.

"It's positive that he's not in detention any more," said Murray.

"There are still a few questions that need to be answered around the isolation, which I'm sure we'll hear from him in the next few days."

Djokovic's travel declaration form, which all visitors have to complete three to seven days before arrival, stated he did not travel in the 14 days before his flight to Australia.

However, social media posts appear to show him in both Serbian capital Belgrade and Spain during that period.

Australia's immigration minister still has powers to re-cancel the visa and deport the unvaccinated player.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/59949506

 

[Firebat]

Novak Djokovic: Up to tennis star to explain PCR grey area, says Serbia PM

Serbia's prime minister says it is up to Novak Djokovic to explain a "grey area" over his Covid test result.

The unvaccinated Serbian tennis star says he was granted a medical exemption to enter Australia after testing positive for Covid in mid-December.

But there are questions over public appearances he made at this time.

If Djokovic went out knowing he had a positive PCR result, it would be a "clear breach" of Serbia's rules, Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told the BBC.

Djokovic's visa was revoked on arrival in Melbourne last week before being reinstated by a judge on Monday. Documents presented at court showed that the 34-year-old tested positive for coronavirus on 16 December.

However on 17 December he was pictured attending an event in the Serbian capital Belgrade honouring young tennis players. There are also reports that he was at a photo shoot on 18 December.

"If you're positive you have to be in isolation," Ms Brnabic told the BBC's Guy De Launey.

But she added: "I do not know when he actually got the results, when he saw the results, so there is some grey area… the only answer to this can be provided by Novak."

Serbian Covid regulations stipulate a full 14-day self-isolation period, unless the person who has tested positive receives a negative PCR test result during that period.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-59958662

 

[MenInG]

Novak Djokovic has admitted breaching isolation rules after testing positive for Covid-19 last month, describing it as an "error of judgement".

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, the Serbian admitted meeting a journalist for an interview two days after he tested positive on 16 December.

"I accept that I should have rescheduled," he wrote.

His activity has been scrutinised as the Australian government considers whether to deport him.

Djokovic, who is unvaccinated, is hoping to defend his Australian Open title next week. He had his visa revoked on 6 January shortly after he arrived in the country amid questions over the vaccine exemption that would have permitted him to enter.

On Monday, however, a judge dramatically overturned the decision and ordered the release of the player from detention.

But the government has not ruled out further action - and the possibility remains that the country's immigration minister could cancel his visa for a second time just days before the tournament begins.

"I felt obliged to go ahead and conduct the L'Equipe interview as I didn't want to let the journalist down," Djokovic wrote in the Instagram post. "[I ensured] I socially distanced and wore a mask except when my photograph was being taken."

He said other reports about him appearing in public following his positive test on 16 December were "misinformation".

Djokovic, meanwhile, also admitted making a false declaration on his travel form prior to entering Australia.

He said his agent had made a mistake when filling in a section of the form that covered his recent travel history. The form stated that he had not travelled in the 14 days before his arrival in Australia.

But recent reports suggest the 34-year-old had travelled to Serbia and then to Spain prior to the trip.

"My agent sincerely apologises for the administrative mistake in ticking the incorrect box," he wrote. "This was a human error and certainly not deliberate."

"My team has provided additional information to the Australian government to clarify this matter," he added.

Australia's Border Force, the nation's immigration officials, said on Tuesday they were investigating whether he had made a "false declaration" - which would be grounds for a visa cancellation.

This year's Australian Open begins on 17 January and if Djokovic wins, he will become the most successful men's player in history.

The men's professional tennis tour has called for more clarity of the rules to enter Australia and urged players to get vaccinated.

"The series of events leading to Monday's court hearing have been damaging on all fronts, including for Novak's well-being and preparation for the Australian Open," the ATP said.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-59935127

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

Provided that the government isn't able to go over the judiciary, which it appears it can then it's not a system to admire.

Well i have been living in Australia now for few years. And I have seen multiple times that the judges have overruled the govt. There is corruption at political level where rich mates of politicians get contracts for construction etc. But if caught the minister almost always has resigned.
So, fairly admirable system I must say.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Things aren't looking for Novak at the moment. It won't be long till the press found out that he infected a kid that went on to give it to their granny who subsequently died.

He has made one bad move after another. Given his bad form does anybody really believe he took several negative lateral flow tests before visiting the kids?

Boot him out of Australia and boot him out of tennis. He can make a good living on the conspiracy circuit.

 

[MenInG]

Full statement from Novak's Instagram account:

STATEMENT BY NOVAK DJOKOVIC

I want to address the continued misinformation about my activities and attendance at events in December in the lead up to my positive PCR COVID test.

This is misinformation which needs to be corrected, particularly in the interest of alleviating broader concern in the community about my presence in Australia, and to address matters which are very hurtful and concerning to my family.

I want to emphasise that I have tried very hard to ensure the safety of everyone and my compliance with testing obligations.

I attended a basketball game in Belgrade on 14 December after which it was reported that a number of people tested positive with COVID-19.

Despite having no COVID symptoms, I took a rapid antigen test on 16 December which was negative, and out of an abundance of caution, also took an official and approved PCR test on that same day.

The next day I attended a tennis event in Belgrade to present awards to children and took a rapid antigen test before going to the event, and it was negative.

I was asymptomatic and felt good, and I had not received the notification of a positive PCR test result until after that event.

The next day, on December 18 I was at my tennis centre in Belgrade to fulfil a long-standing commitment for a l'Equipe interview and photoshoot. I cancelled all other events except for the l'Equipe interview.

I felt obliged to go ahead and conduct the l'Equipe interview as I didn’t want to let the journalist down, but did ensure I socially distanced and wore a mask except when my photograph was being taken.

While I went home after the interview to isolate for the required period, on reflection, this was an error of judgement and I accept that I should have rescheduled this commitment.

On the issue of my travel declaration, this was submitted by my support team on my behalf - as I told immigration officials on my arrival - and my agent sincerely apologises for the administrative mistake in ticking the incorrect box about my previous travel before coming to Australia.

This was a human error and certainly not deliberate. We are living in challenging times in a global pandemic and sometimes these mistakes can occur.

Today, my team has provided additional information to the Australian Government to clarify this matter.

While I felt it was important to address and clarify misinformation I will not be making any further comment out of utmost respect for the Australian Government and their authorities and the current process.

It is always an honour and a privilege to play in the Australian Open. The Australian Open is much-loved by players, fans and the community, not just in Victoria and in Australia, but around the globe, and I just want to have the opportunity to compete against the best players in the world and perform before one of the best crowds in the world.

 

[bones]

I can't defend any of his actions. How can anyone? He has got some serious answers to give when he gets back home and I suspect that might be tonight/tomorrow for us.

According to Australian law my understanding is:

A deportation order can be appealed - so this will not be used
A removal order cannot be appealed - so this would be pretty much final

The basis of this removal will be based on multiple failures but the main one being the character test. I think it's a done deal, they'll be announcing he's being "removed" rather than "deported". I also suspect the following:

1. Huge pressure on the Serbian government to prosecute him and unless further corruption could be put in jail, but they need to treat him like they treat others
2. Probably the end of his grand slam winning days, such a shame for his fans like me because he was on the verge of cementing the goat debate
3. The current Aus government won't survive this
4. TA's leadership will resign
5. Djokovic's sponsors to move away from him perhaps except the odd one

Djokovic in hindsight should have just left after winning the court case and perhaps most of this would have rightly or wrongly been hidden. But by staying, oh boy this how blown up like nothing I can remember in our sport.

I actually this might be the biggest story and attention that tennis has ever received, even bigger than the sad day that Seles was stabbed.

I am very very depressed right now because I can't defend him and his actions anymore. For his greatness on the court, people will remember this.

I haven't slept well since this all began and I don't think I will for a few more nights.

You know that shame you felt when the spot fixing scandal occured? Well this is like that for me.

 

[MenInG]

Doubles player Renata Voracova, who was deported from Australia after her visa was cancelled, did "nothing wrong", says the Women's Tennis Association.

The 38-year-old Czech was allowed to enter the country after presenting a Covid vaccination exemption and played in a tournament in Melbourne.

However, she was subsequently detained and left Australia on Saturday.

"The complications experienced over the past few days... are unfortunate," said the WTA.

"Renata Voracova followed these rules and procedures, was cleared for entry upon her arrival, competed in an event and then suddenly had her visa cancelled when she had done nothing wrong.

"We will continue to work with all authorities on addressing this unfortunate situation in an appropriate manner."

Men's world number one Novak Djokovic is hoping to remain in Australia and defend his Australian Open title after his visa was similarly revoked before a judge overturned that decision on Monday.

Voracova, who intends to pursue compensation from Tennis Australia, told BBC Russian on Wednesday that the way she was treated was "not right".

"I felt a little bit like a criminal, but there was no reason why I should feel like that," she said.

"I sent all the documents. They were approved. If I knew there would be even a 1% chance of something not being right, I wouldn't go."

She added that she had intended to be vaccinated against Covid but suffered medical complications after contracting the virus that prevented her getting the jab.

The WTA said, despite its concerns over Voracova's case, it believed "all players should be vaccinated" and it was "in full support of the immigration policies that have been put in place" in Australia for the early part of the 2022 season.

BBC

 

[KingKhanWC]

I can't defend any of his actions. How can anyone? He has got some serious answers to give when he gets back home and I suspect that might be tonight/tomorrow for us.

According to Australian law my understanding is:

A deportation order can be appealed - so this will not be used
A removal order cannot be appealed - so this would be pretty much final

The basis of this removal will be based on multiple failures but the main one being the character test. I think it's a done deal, they'll be announcing he's being "removed" rather than "deported". I also suspect the following:

1. Huge pressure on the Serbian government to prosecute him and unless further corruption could be put in jail, but they need to treat him like they treat others
2. Probably the end of his grand slam winning days, such a shame for his fans like me because he was on the verge of cementing the goat debate
3. The current Aus government won't survive this
4. TA's leadership will resign
5. Djokovic's sponsors to move away from him perhaps except the odd one

Djokovic in hindsight should have just left after winning the court case and perhaps most of this would have rightly or wrongly been hidden. But by staying, oh boy this how blown up like nothing I can remember in our sport.

I actually this might be the biggest story and attention that tennis has ever received, even bigger than the sad day that Seles was stabbed.

I am very very depressed right now because I can't defend him and his actions anymore. For his greatness on the court, people will remember this.

I haven't slept well since this all began and I don't think I will for a few more nights.

You know that shame you felt when the spot fixing scandal occured? Well this is like that for me.

I think you are taking this too personally. What he does with his life has little relavence to you. Why make youself unwell because of a star tennis player, who has no clue you exist? Very strange post.

Novak is more protective than any vaxed player. He has natural immunity which is far better than any vaccine.

Let him play the Open. Or better still next year move the Open to Dubai. Australia with its extreme laws doesnt deserve to have high profile tournaments.

 

[transparent opacity]

Australian PM Scott Morrison says no decision yet on Novak Djokovic visa

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday his government has yet to decide on cancelling tennis superstar Novak Djokovic's visa.

Immigration Minister Alex Hawke's earlier statement that he is pondering whether to tear up the visa “has not changed”, Morrison told a news conference in Canberra on the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Australian leader stressed that it was a decision for Hawke to take, declining further comment.

Djokovic flew into Melbourne hoping to claim a tenth Australian Open title on January 5.

The unvaccinated 34-year-old Serbian ace carried with him a vaccine exemption because of a claimed positive PCR test result on December 16.

Border agents rejected his exemption, saying a recent infection was an insufficient reason, tore up his visa and placed him in a detention centre.

But vaccine-sceptic Djokovic's high-powered legal team overturned the visa decision in court on Monday on a procedural matter related to his airport interview.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1669209/a...n-says-no-decision-yet-on-novak-djokovic-visa

 

[MenInG]

Novak Djokovic is "playing by his own rules" and has made vaccinated tennis players "look like fools", world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas has said.

Record nine-time winner and top seed Djokovic, 34, remains in the Australian Open draw as the decision over whether the defending champion can stay in the country drags on.

"For sure, he's been playing by his own rules and has been doing what not many players had the guts to do," Greece's Tsitsipas told India's WION news channel.

"Especially after the ATP announced certain criteria for players to enter the country."

Djokovic, who is unvaccinated, had his visa revoked when he arrived in Australia last week, following questions over the vaccine exemption that would have permitted him to enter.

However, on Monday a judge overturned the decision and ordered his release from an immigration detention hotel after finding that border officials had not followed proper procedure.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Djokovic admitted to meeting a L'Equipe journalist on 18 December despite knowing he had tested positive for Covid, as well as there being mistakes on his immigration forms.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison held a news conference to update the country about the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday, although he declined to say when a decision about Djokovic might be made.

Tsitsipas, who lost to Djokovic in last year's French Open final, added: "No-one really thought they could come to Australia unvaccinated and not having to follow the protocols... it takes a lot of daring to do and putting the Grand Slam at risk, which I don't think many players would do.

"I chose to go and be 100% ready for whatever was to come and not have to think about anything else."

The ATP, which governs men's tennis, has said 97 of the top 100 male players are vaccinated.

American world number 93 Tennys Sandgren told reporters earlier this month that he had pulled out of the Australian Open because of the vaccine mandate and he opted not to apply for a medical exemption.

Asked if Djokovic should defend his title at Melbourne Park next week, Tsitsipas said: "There are two ways to look at it. One way is that almost every single player is vaccinated and did what they had to do in order to come and perform and play in Australia.

"On the other sense, it seems not everyone is playing by the rules...a very small [minority] chose to follow their own way, which kind of makes the majority look like fools."

The Australian Open begins on 17 January. Djokovic, who is hunting a record 21st Grand Slam men's singles title, has been drawn to play fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanovic in the first round, with Tsitsipas up against Sweden's Mikael Ymer.

BBC

 

[James]

Update…

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-59991762

<b> Novak Djokovic: Australia cancels tennis star's visa</b>

Australia has revoked tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa for a second time in a row over his right to remain in the country unvaccinated.

The decision by Immigration Minister Alex Hawke means Djokovic now faces being deported.

However, the 34-year-old Serbian can still launch another legal challenge to remain in the country.

The men's tennis number one was scheduled to play in the Australian Open, which begins on Monday.

Djokovic's visa was first revoked shortly after his arrival in Melbourne on 6 January, after Australian border Force officials said he had "failed to provide appropriate evidence" to receive a vaccine exemption.

There was also enormous backlash from the Australian public, who have lived under some of the world's longest and strictest lockdowns during the pandemic.

He was detained, spent hours at immigration control at the airport and then spent days at an immigration hotel. Days later his visa was reinstated by a judge, who ordered his release, ruling that border officials ignored correct procedure when he arrived.

But on Friday evening in Melbourne, Mr Hawke cancelled Djokovic's visa under separate powers in Australia's Migration Act.

The act allows him to deport anyone he deems a potential risk to "the health, safety or good order of the Australian community", however Djokovic can still appeal this.

It comes after Djokovic addressed allegations that he had made a false declaration on his travel form - which stated that he had not travelled in the 14 days prior to his arrival in Australia, when in fact he had been to Spain.

He said the mistake was made by his agent, calling it "human error" and adding that it was "not deliberate".

He also admitted meeting a journalist and having a photoshoot after testing positive for Covid-19.

— — —

 

[HitWicket]

Lied on his immigration form, lied about when he was notified of his test result, potentially even fudged the date of his test result and showed complete disregard for others by attending events whilst positive. The guy doesn't deserve any favourable treatment.

 

[Robert]

Lied on his immigration form, lied about when he was notified of his test result, potentially even fudged the date of his test result and showed complete disregard for others by attending events whilst positive. The guy doesn't deserve any favourable treatment.

Concur. He comes across as over-entitled and arrogant.

 

[Technics 1210]

This is excellent news! Banned for 3 years from entering Australia? This could be waivered though, but glad he has been made an example. No one is above the law.

 

[Technics 1210]

He should also face criminal charges for lying on his immigration form.

 

[MenInG]

Andy Murray has described Novak Djokovic's visa saga as "not great for tennis, not great for the Australian Open, not great for Novak".

The world number one had his Australian visa revoked for a second time on Friday evening.

The 34-year-old plans to launch another legal challenge to stay and compete in the tournament, which begins on Monday.

"It just seems like it's dragged on for quite a long time now," said five-time Melbourne finalist Murray.

Djokovic's visa was cancelled by Immigration Minister Alex Hawke on the basis of "health and good order" grounds.

It means the 20-time Grand Slam champion could be deported and get a three-year visa ban.

Lawyers for Djokovic and the Australian government attended an emergency hearing on Friday to determine what will happen next.

"I'm not going to sit here and start kicking Novak whilst he's down," Murray said after his semi-final victory in the Sydney Tennis Classic.

"just want it to get resolved. It would be good for everyone if that was the case."

Djokovic is bidding for a men's record 21st Grand Slam title, which would take him past great rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

He has enjoyed huge success in Australia, having won a record nine men's titles in Melbourne. He has lost just three times in the tournament since 2011.

Former world number one Boris Becker, who coached Djokovic from 2013 to 2016, said the Serb had become involved in a "political game".

"No tennis player is bigger than a tournament," Becker told BBC Sport.

"We have to concentrate, as sportsmen or women, back on the action on the court, not what's happening in the court of justice.

"It is a political game he got involved in and that's unfortunate."

The original decision to grant Djokovic a visa has been hugely controversial with the Australian public, who have been subject to strict lockdown rules in recent months.

A survey of 60,000 people carried out by Australian agency NewsCorp before Hawke's decision showed 83% of people wanted Djokovic to be deported.

Asked if Djokovic would care about public perception, Becker said: "I think fundamentally he does - who doesn't want to be loved?

"He knows he's respected but he's not loved as much as Roger and Rafa and some of the others and he's always been the underdog.

"It is a little bit like me against the world, which made him the player he was, you know?

"He is a street fighter. That is his mentality and it is what made him big and so successful. It is hard to change that."

'My sympathy has gone now'

The ATP, which governs men's tennis, has said 97 of the top 100 male players are vaccinated.

A number of players have been critical of Djokovic, with Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas saying he had made vaccinated players "look like fools".

Britain's Sue Barker, who won the French Open in 1976 and is now a BBC presenter, said the situation was distracting from the whole tournament.

"We wanted the number one player in the world, he could have been there by being vaccinated," she added.

"I know he's chosen not to and that is his right - but its also his choice. And with that choice comes consequences."

Darren Cahill, who previously coached two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep, posted on social media that fault lies "everywhere" in this situation.

"It should've been a hard rule entering this country considering what the folks have been through," Australian Cahill wrote.

"Get vaccinated and come play the Australian Open or if not maybe see you in 2023. No wiggle room."

BBC

 

[cricketjoshila]

If this joker, pun intended isn't deported from Australia, it will make a mockery of sovereign laws and the limitations of rights of foreign visa holders.

If Australian laws says that a foreigner has to be vaccinated to enter Australia, thats that.

Its shameful that this guy is even trying to get these restrictions overturned. Hopefully Australian public protests and make sure he doesn't enter Australia.

 

[transparent opacity]

Novak Djokovic to be detained again as Australia cancels tennis star's visa

British tennis player Sir Andy Murray has commented on Australia's decision to revoke Djokovic's visa for a second time, saying it is "not a good situation".

Novak Djokovic will be detained again in Australia from tomorrow morning after his lawyers appealed a decision by the country's immigration minister to cancel his visa for a second time.

The tennis star first had his visa revoked on arrival in Melbourne last week when his COVID vaccination exemption was questioned.

But he won a court appeal against the cancellation that allowed him to remain in the country.

At the time, the Australian government said it would continue to look at whether he could stay, which was a decision that was entirely at the discretion of immigration minister Alex Hawke.

He announced on Friday that the Serbian's visa had been cancelled again, this time on public health grounds.

At a court hearing, Djokovic's lawyers asked for an injunction to block his removal from the country, saying the reasons behind Mr Hawke's decision are "patently irrational".

Djokovic will be free for Friday night but will be detained at 8am on Saturday morning after being interviewed at the Department for Home Affairs.

The 34-year-old will then be able to spend time with his lawyers to prepare for his case but will be taken back into detention on Saturday night.

His legal team are pushing for a hearing to take place on Sunday, in the hope of a decision being made ahead of the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic tries to explain 'mistake' on Australia entry visa form

Mr Hawke said he made his judgement after "carefully" considering information from the Department of Home Affairs, the Australian Border Force and from Djokovic.

"Today I exercised my power under section 133C(3) of the Migration Act to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so," he said in a statement.

"The Morrison government is firmly committed to protecting Australia's borders, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic," he added, referring to Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Under the section of the Migration Act used by the minister, Djokovic will not be able to secure a visa to come to Australia for three years, except in compelling circumstances that affect the country's interest.

Commenting on the decision, Mr Morrison said Australians have made "many sacrifices" during the pandemic.

"They rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected," he added. "The pandemic has been incredibly difficult for every Australian, but we have stuck together and saved lives and livelihoods.

"Our strong border protection policies have kept Australians safe, prior to COVID and now during the pandemic."

What are Australia's travel rules?

What about the Australian Open?

The second cancellation of Djokovic's visa comes after he was drawn against fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanovic in the Australian Open, which is due to begin on Monday.

The men's tennis world number one could still file a legal challenge, but if not, his hopes of winning a 10th title at Melbourne Park and 21st grand slam crown will come to an end.

In order to stand a chance at competing, his lawyers would need to go before a judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court or a higher judge of the Federal Court to get two urgent orders.

One order would be an injunction to prevent his deportation, like the one he gained last week.

The second would order Mr Hawke to grant Djokovic a visa to play.

If he is forced out of the tournament ahead of Monday's order of play being announced, the seeds will be shuffled around, with fifth seed Andrey Rublev taking the tennis star's place.

'Not great for the Australian Open - not great for Novak'

British tennis player Andy Murray described the fallout as "not a good situation".

He added that it was "not great for the tennis, not great for the Australian Open, not great for Novak and obviously a lot of people have criticised the government here as well, so it's not been good.

"I'm not going to sit here and start kicking Novak whilst he's down, I said it the other day, it's not a good situation for anyone," he said.

https://news.sky.com/story/novak-dj...al-decision-to-revoke-his-visa-again-12515481

 

[bones]

If this joker, pun intended isn't deported from Australia, it will make a mockery of sovereign laws and the limitations of rights of foreign visa holders.

If Australian laws says that a foreigner has to be vaccinated to enter Australia, thats that.

Its shameful that this guy is even trying to get these restrictions overturned. Hopefully Australian public protests and make sure he doesn't enter Australia.

Well he almost found a way and the fact he did is not his fault. The Government and TA are just as culpable because if they refused the visa in the first place or had a bubble option then this would not have happened.

He messed up big time in many other ways too and I'm sure he now regrets ever taking off in the first place. But since he's there there is major hatred being thrown at him I think the warrior in him wants to see this through and somehow win.

I just looked at your requirements for entry and they do allow non-vaxxed people in with certain criteria.

 

[bones]

He should also face criminal charges for lying on his immigration form.

I don't think you can charge someone for something as little as that especially when if you select the other option it wouldn't make a difference to the decision.

Serbia should charge him for not complying to Covid rules and I think they probably don't have the balls to, but a severe penalty should be given, in my opinion someone like a 2-4 prison sentence along with something like a £200k fine. I'm a fan and I'm saying this.

The "lie" on the form will be very difficult to prove especially when all these top sportsmen get the forms completed by someone in their team.

 

[bones]

This is excellent news! Banned for 3 years from entering Australia? This could be waivered though, but glad he has been made an example. No one is above the law.

No one is above the law? Except the Minister who's just cancelled his VISA right? Lol.

 

[bones]

Lied on his immigration form, lied about when he was notified of his test result, potentially even fudged the date of his test result and showed complete disregard for others by attending events whilst positive. The guy doesn't deserve any favourable treatment.

Agree with every point, can't dispute and I'm a fan.

But I think the fact that media is after ONLY his head right now is very unfair. TA and the Government need to be head to account. The Prime Minister for a start because they clearly changed their rules on 6 January because we now know either the Australian Border Official are idiots to allow 4 others in or the law changed whilst the saga started.

 

[Technics 1210]

Well he almost found a way and the fact he did is not his fault. The Government and TA are just as culpable because if they refused the visa in the first place or had a bubble option then this would not have happened.

He messed up big time in many other ways too and I'm sure he now regrets ever taking off in the first place. But since he's there there is major hatred being thrown at him I think the warrior in him wants to see this through and somehow win.

I just looked at your requirements for entry and they do allow non-vaxxed people in with certain criteria.

Novak lied on his immigration form. This is clear as daylight, his entry card is plastered over social media. He can blame his agent but this is no different to a drug smuggler getting caught at customs and saying someone else packed their bags. Moreover, Renata Voracova was refused entry for the same reasons as Novak! Hello? One rule for women and another rule for me? Novak is not above the law!

However I will say that he has the right to refuse a vaccine, but this is no reason to lie.

 

[bones]

Moreover, Renata Voracova was refused entry for the same reasons as Novak! Hello? One rule for women and another rule for me? Novak is not above the law!

However I will say that he has the right to refuse a vaccine, but this is no reason to lie.

I really think you need to read up on this before you make your irrational statements. The Aus Government changed the policy on Jan 6, otherwise how else you you explain deporting Renata and 3 others. By the way it wasn't just Renata. She will sue the authorities and probably win because they allowed her in initiailly.

His lie was that he said he didn't travel 14 days prior to arriving in Australia. He did he was in Spain where he now lives.

One of the questions an immigration lawyer in Australia was asked was, if he had ticked the other option what would have happened. The response almost certainly nothing. So this lie, what exactly is big deal with it? Not much according to lawyers and that's part of why it was never brought up in the original case or this 2nd one.

What Djokovic's mistake was his stupidity after he tested positive. Serbia should deal with him when he gets home, that is a matter for them. Maybe a 2-4 week prison sentence and £200k fine is fair punishment.

 

[Technics 1210]

I really think you need to read up on this before you make your irrational statements. The Aus Government changed the policy on Jan 6, otherwise how else you you explain deporting Renata and 3 others. By the way it wasn't just Renata. She will sue the authorities and probably win because they allowed her in initiailly.

His lie was that he said he didn't travel 14 days prior to arriving in Australia. He did he was in Spain where he now lives.

One of the questions an immigration lawyer in Australia was asked was, if he had ticked the other option what would have happened. The response almost certainly nothing. So this lie, what exactly is big deal with it? Not much according to lawyers and that's part of why it was never brought up in the original case or this 2nd one.

What Djokovic's mistake was his stupidity after he tested positive. Serbia should deal with him when he gets home, that is a matter for them. Maybe a 2-4 week prison sentence and £200k fine is fair punishment.

You just admitted he lied then you have the audacity to tell me to read up on the facts? You agree with me.

Be honest, how much do you stand to lose by placing a bet on Novak to win the Australian Open?

Please do speak up.

PS: No defence or counter on why a woman was rejected entry to the same comp on the same grounds. No bet on her winning I suppose.

 

[Technics 1210]

There are countless images of the immigration form by Novak asking if a person visited or or plans to visit a country 14 days prior to entry. The form states clearly it is a crime to lie on the form.

 

[bones]

You just admitted he lied then you have the audacity to tell me to read up on the facts? You agree with me.

Be honest, how much do you stand to lose by placing a bet on Novak to win the Australian Open?

Please do speak up.

PS: No defence or counter on why a woman was rejected entry to the same comp on the same grounds. No bet on her winning I suppose.

Ok let's say he lied rather than it was a mistake. So the question a lot people would ask is, what would happen if he ticked the other box. That is ultimately what it came down to, a yes or no question. The lawyers in Australia say nothing would happen if he ticked the other box. In fact they say it depends on how the border officer sees it, usually they let them through on something like that. These lawyers are popping up on all the stations right now and they are explaining legally what the government and Djokovic can do on the various grounds. Not one of them has highlighted this lie on the form as a major issue.

You ask why a woman was rejected, but then ignore that at least 1 male official was deported too. We can say this based on the information given to us. We also now know 2 others were deported in the last 48 hours but don't have details on their ages, roles or genders.

Djokovic was not getting special treatment because he is a man. He was getting special treatment because he is the best player in the world. That may be wrong to you but that's not how the Australian Open officials saw it and so hurl your blame at them too.

 

[bones]

There are countless images of the immigration form by Novak asking if a person visited or or plans to visit a country 14 days prior to entry. The form states clearly it is a crime to lie on the form.

Yet the Minister didn't even bring it up in his grounds for the cancellation today.

 

[Technics 1210]

Ok let's say he lied rather than it was a mistake. So the question a lot people would ask is, what would happen if he ticked the other box. That is ultimately what it came down to, a yes or no question. The lawyers in Australia say nothing would happen if he ticked the other box. In fact they say it depends on how the border officer sees it, usually they let them through on something like that. These lawyers are popping up on all the stations right now and they are explaining legally what the government and Djokovic can do on the various grounds. Not one of them has highlighted this lie on the form as a major issue.

You ask why a woman was rejected, but then ignore that at least 1 male official was deported too. We can say this based on the information given to us. We also now know 2 others were deported in the last 48 hours but don't have details on their ages, roles or genders.

Djokovic was not getting special treatment because he is a man. He was getting special treatment because he is the best player in the world. That may be wrong to you but that's not how the Australian Open officials saw it and so hurl your blame at them too.

No. Not lets say he lied on the form, he did lie. The consequences are clear on the form.

You ignore the fact the woman was deported because she was not vaccinated either. The same reason why Novak has had his visa cancel the second time.

I ask you once again, how much money did you have on Novak winning the Australian open?

 

[Technics 1210]

Yet the Minister didn't even bring it up in his grounds for the cancellation today.

Irrelevant. The fact he lied and had his visa cancelled for lying about when he was vaccinated etc is the point.

The guy is a compulsive liar.

 

[bones]

Irrelevant. The fact he lied and had his visa cancelled for lying about when he was vaccinated etc is the point.

The guy is a compulsive liar.

Yes he’s a liar no better or worse than their political leaders. So if he is targeted and held so should everyone else involved.

He didn’t get his visa cancellation because of the “lie” he had it cancelled because initially he didn’t meet the criteria for entry and today he had it cancelled for the public order and health reasons.

It begs the question what exactly do you know about this whole situation? My guess is what you have seen on your twitter feed.

 

[bones]

One way or the other a final decision needs to be made on Sunday. This has just dragged on and on.

 

[bones]

60/40 chance he plays according to this lawyer.

https://mobile.twitter.com/sunriseon7/status/1482114450761326592

 

[Salma_T]

Irrelevant. The fact he lied and had his visa cancelled for lying about when he was vaccinated etc is the point.

The guy is a compulsive liar.

He cancellation has nothing to do with the mistake on his card!

It is due to increasing anti vaxx sentiment (in a country where 90% plus 16 plus are vaxxed and 80% of 5 plus have 1 jab (5-11 yr old just become eligible on 10/01). The second reason was civil order as his presence could incite it.
In all honestly how is he a risk to health, safety or good order of the Australian community or part of the community. We currently have 100k cases a day FYI. Our PM has used it as a distraction from his failing and steeple have lapped it up!

 

[Gilly]

He cancellation has nothing to do with the mistake on his card!

It is due to increasing anti vaxx sentiment (in a country where 90% plus 16 plus are vaxxed and 80% of 5 plus have 1 jab (5-11 yr old just become eligible on 10/01). The second reason was civil order as his presence could incite it.
In all honestly how is he a risk to health, safety or good order of the Australian community or part of the community. We currently have 100k cases a day FYI. Our PM has used it as a distraction from his failing and steeple have lapped it up!

This has nothing to do with Morrison except for those that want to turn it into a political decision.

The Australian economy is going just fine and there is nothing that needs distraction from.

 

[Salma_T]

It is all political but it is not for those who support Morrison. A minister stepped in and overruled hence political. I never mentioned the economy but as you have ask the business that are seeing cancellation due to ppl not wanting to get covid or our empty shelves due to lack of workers.

 

[LongHorn]

A lot of Australians are bitter they were subject to unfair rules (one of few countries to ban travel by citizens). But instead of taking their bitterness out at the govt, they found this player to be an easy target.

Same with the vax, there is this sentiment, inside and outside Australia, that even if the vaccine does not stop transmission (it doesnt, look at how countries with high vax rates have high cases), everyone has to take it .......................because I took it

 

[Gilly]

It is all political but it is not for those who support Morrison. A minister stepped in and overruled hence political. I never mentioned the economy but as you have ask the business that are seeing cancellation due to ppl not wanting to get covid or our empty shelves due to lack of workers.

You are talking to someone who is not a Morrison supporter and knows it is not political other than for those that are trying to make it political. It has nothing to do with Morrison and there is nothing to distract anyone from. Its all hot air.

 

[MenInG]

Novak Djokovic has been detained in Australia ahead of a court hearing that will determine whether the unvaccinated tennis star can stay in the country.

The Serbian faces deportation after his visa was cancelled for a second time, with the government labelling the 34-year-old a threat to public health.

His lawyers are appealing against what they called an "irrational" judgement, with the hearing set for Sunday.

Djokovic is still scheduled to play the Australian Open on Monday in Melbourne.

If he were to win the tournament, he would become the most successful men's tennis player in the history of the sport with 21 major titles.

But Sunday's hearing, which has been scheduled for 09:30 local time (22:30 GMT on Saturday), is crucial if Djokovic is to be able to compete just hours later.

If he loses the appeal, the world's top-ranked men's tennis player faces deportation and a three-year visa ban.

On Saturday, shortly after an online procedural hearing, Djokovic returned to the immigration detention hotel where he was held earlier this week, He will remain there until his final appeal on Sunday.

At the procedural hearing, Justice David O'Callaghan set the time for Sunday's proceedings but said it was yet to be decided whether it would be heard by a single judge or a full court.

Djokovic's visa was first revoked shortly after his arrival in Melbourne on 6 January, after Australian Border Force officials said he had "failed to provide appropriate evidence" to receive a vaccine exemption.

The tennis star was detained for days at an immigration hotel, before his visa was reinstated by a judge, who ordered his release, ruling that border officials ignored correct procedure when he arrived.

But on Friday evening, Mr Hawke once again cancelled Djokovic's visa under separate powers in Australia's Migration Act.

The act allows him to deport anyone he deems a potential risk to "the health, safety or good order of the Australian community".

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the decision followed "careful consideration".

Alluding to the heavy criticism his government has faced for allowing the unvaccinated player into Australia, Mr Morrison said: "Australians have made many sacrifices during this pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected."

BBC

 

[Gilly]

A lot of Australians are bitter they were subject to unfair rules (one of few countries to ban travel by citizens). But instead of taking their bitterness out at the govt, they found this player to be an easy target.

Same with the vax, there is this sentiment, inside and outside Australia, that even if the vaccine does not stop transmission (it doesnt, look at how countries with high vax rates have high cases), everyone has to take it .......................because I took it

Vaccination reduces the severity of the virus and reduces the pressure on hospitals and health workers. Common sense tells us that the more people we can prevent from going into health care then the better it will be for everybody if they do need to receive treatment in a hospital.

 

[MenInG]

Novak Djokovic is back in detention at the Park hotel ahead of his appeal against the re-cancellation of his visa on Sunday morning at the Federal Court of Australia.

After meeting his lawyers for several hours, Djokovic was driven to the same immigration hotel where he spent four nights last week for what he will hope will be the final night.

SKY

 

[bones]

Vaccination reduces the severity of the virus and reduces the pressure on hospitals and health workers. Common sense tells us that the more people we can prevent from going into health care then the better it will be for everybody if they do need to receive treatment in a hospital.

So in fact these vaccines are not that effective are they?

The government is arguing that keeping him would promote anti-vaxx protesters. Well I can tell you one thing now, the anti-vaxxers are going to be even more emboldened if they kick him out.

 

[Technics 1210]

He cancellation has nothing to do with the mistake on his card!

It is due to increasing anti vaxx sentiment (in a country where 90% plus 16 plus are vaxxed and 80% of 5 plus have 1 jab (5-11 yr old just become eligible on 10/01). The second reason was civil order as his presence could incite it.
In all honestly how is he a risk to health, safety or good order of the Australian community or part of the community. We currently have 100k cases a day FYI. Our PM has used it as a distraction from his failing and steeple have lapped it up!

I think you are missing the point.

His lies and inconsistency cast doubt on the status of his health.

His social media posts, incorrect info on the forms, lack of evidence - all bring into question just how healthy he is. Visa cancelled.

His own family bailed from an interview when his whereabouts before entering Australia were put to question.

Furthermore, Renata Voracova was refused entry and she also had an exemption from Tennis Australia, but was refused entry. She didn't lie and wasn't caught lying via social media etc.

So why should Novak be allowed in Australia?

 

[James]

Sunday 16/1/22
6:35AM (UK)

Decision expected in 15 minutes
We're just hearing that a decision will be delivered by the court in 15 minutes.

We'll be bringing you the ruling and all the latest updates here.

 

[James]

BREAKING
Djokovic loses appeal
Novak Djokovic is set to be deported from Australia, after losing his appeal against his visa cancellation.

The judges have unanimously dismissed his appeal. They say they will give their reason shortly.

 

[Robert]

BREAKING
Djokovic loses appeal
Novak Djokovic is set to be deported from Australia, after losing his appeal against his visa cancellation.

The judges have unanimously dismissed his appeal. They say they will give their reason shortly.

It’s been a fiasco for the Australian government but they did the right thing in the end. No rich guy is above the law.

 

[James]

BBC

Novak Djokovic has reacted to today’s verdict, saying he is "extremely disappointed" with the judges' decision to uphold the cancellation of his visa, but will not appeal the ruling.

Here's his statement in full:

<I>"I would like to make a brief statement to address the outcomes of today’s Court hearing.

"I will now be taking some time to rest and to recuperate, before making any further comments beyond this.

"I am extremely disappointed with the Court ruling to dismiss my application for judicial review of the Minister’s decision to cancel my visa, which means I cannot stay in Australia and participate in the Australian Open.

"I respect the Court’s ruling and I will cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country.

"I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and tournament I love.

"I would like to wish the players, tournament officials, staff, volunteers and fans all the best for the tournament.

"Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans and my fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me."</I>

 

[James]

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has released a statement, welcoming the decision to dismiss Djokovic's appeal:

<I>"The Full Federal Court of Australia unanimously decided to dismiss Mr Novak Djokovic's application for judicial review which sought to challenge the Minister for Immigration's decision to cancel his visa.

"This cancellation decision was made on health, safety and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so.

"I welcome the decision to keep our borders strong and keep Australians safe.

"As I said on Friday, Australians have made many sacrifices during this pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected.

"Over the pandemic, together we have achieved one of the lowest death rates, strongest economies and highest vaccination rates, in the world.

"Strong borders are fundamental to the Australian way of life as is the rule of law.

"Our Government has always understood this and has been prepared to take the decisions and actions necessary to protect the integrity of our borders.

"I thank the Court for their prompt attention to these issues and the patience of all involved as we have worked to resolve this issue.

"It's now time to get on with the Australian Open and get back to enjoying tennis over the summer."</I>

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Great news - he had a blatanr disregard for the rules and other people's safety.

 

[Maher96]

Novak Djokovic has been seen boarding a flight bound for Dubai, Reuters news agency reports.

He was seen by a journalist boarding the flight at Melbourne airport. The plane is due to depart at 2230 local time (1130 GMT).

It comes just hours after he lost his bid to overturn his visa cancellation.

In Addition:

Djokovic and police spotted in Emirates lounge,

More images are now coming through of the tennis star at Melbourne's airport, where witnesses saw him board an Emirates flight from Melbourne to Dubai.

Australian journalist Shane McInnes shared images of Djokovic in the Emirates lounge, saying he had been under escort by Australia's Federal Police.

 

[bones]

Great news - he had a blatanr disregard for the rules and other people's safety.

As crazy as this sounds, this could actually make him even more famous around the world. He has been the centre of the biggest story this last 2 weeks and everyone is talking about him.

I read online that this will tarnish his legacy and no one will consider him the GOAT anymore. I completely disagree I think Tiger Woods is still considered one of the GOATs despite his personal issues. There are others too.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

As crazy as this sounds, this could actually make him even more famous around the world. He has been the centre of the biggest story this last 2 weeks and everyone is talking about him.

I read online that this will tarnish his legacy and no one will consider him the GOAT anymore. I completely disagree I think Tiger Woods is still considered one of the GOATs despite his personal issues. There are others too.

He could have milked the situation and became a poster boy for conspiracy theorists and anti-vaxers but his own actions will mean that it would be toxic to share a platform with him on this issue.

I don't think it will detract from his tennis achievements or legacy at all. His standing as a person may have decreased but there is still no doubt he is one of the best Tennis players.

 

[Kroll]

It’s been a fiasco for the Australian government but they did the right thing in the end. No rich guy is above the law.

The right thing was to make the decision before allowing him into the country and processing him through the grinder.

Novak is still the true champion of the AO until he gets his opportunity to defend it. But if I was him I'd never go back but he's a guy of such maturity, understanding and class he's already wishing everyone connected with tournament all the best cos he knows its not their fault.