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The Australian open or “the happy slam” began this Monday without the Serbian star Novak Djokovic defending his title. The 9-time Australian Open champ has been deported out of Australia.
BACKGROUND
Novak Djokovic is a vaccine skeptic and hasn’t taken the vaccines that are offered against the coronavirus. As per the rules laid out by the immigration department of Australia, no foreigner can be allowed in
the country if they are not vaccinated.
Novak was given an exemption but that was denied by the Australian government. A legal application was filed by the tennis star in the court which was accepted.
But luck has its ways and the immigration department refused to allow Novak Djokovic to play and thus, his visa was canceled and he was deported.
This is the first time Djokovic is missing a grand slam since his main draw debut in the Australian open of 2005.
AFTERMATH
With the grand slam beginning without him. It offers an opportunity for
all other opponents to lay their hands on the prestigious title. 20-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal and Russian Daniil Medvedev are heavily tipped to win this year.
This episode has created diplomatic tensions between Australia and Serbia. No official complaint has been filed by Serbia as of yet but the local media has criticized Australian authorities for deporting their most
famous sportsperson.
There is a possibility that Djokovic might not be able to participate in the French Open as the French sports ministry has issued an official statement that the new vaccine pass will apply to everyone alike and the elite sportspeople will have to get the vaccine.
It remains to be seen whether he will be awarded any exemption in France but the cancellation of the 34-year-olds visa by Australia in the name of public interest has created a buzz around the world.