Novak Djokovic set to play at the 2023 Australian Open after Federal government overturns visa ban
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Novak Djokovic (IMAGO / Xinhua)
Novak Djokovic, the 9-time champion at the Australian Open, is set to be back at Melbourne Park going for title number 10. Djokovic was the 3-time defending champion at the 2022 Australian Open when he was embroiled in the politics of the Australian government.
As a result, Djokovic was banned from playing at this year’s event and also handed a 3-year ban from entering the country as his visa was also canceled. Deported on the eve of his round 1 match, Djokovic had to see rival Rafael Nadal win the title and become the first to 21 majors, a record that Djokovic was a favorite for.
However, the latest updates coming in from Australia are in favor of the Serb. Under the new government in Australia, the current immigration minister Andrew Giles is set to overturn Djokovic’s ban and welcome him to play at the 2023 Australian Open.
As per the Australian daily, The West Australian, Djokovic despite being unvaccinated against Covid-19 will be allowed to enter the country for the tournament. The government is set to scrap the compulsory vaccination rule for all visiting foreigners that will see Djokovic enter the country without any problems.
Novak Djokovic can match Rafael Nadal’s tally in Australia next year
With Djokovic deported from Australia, the Grand Slam was up for grabs for many and Nadal did not miss out on the chance. The Spaniard came from a double break and 2-sets down to win the last 3 sets and take the title. The win made Nadal the first man to win 21 majors.
Djokovic after his brilliant 2021 season where he finished 27-1 in Grand Slams losing only the US Open, was the big favorite for the title in Australia. However, due to the politics that took place, he was unfortunate to get treated the way he got treated during his 10-day stay in Melbourne.
With 9 titles already to his name and revenge on his mind, it will only be poetic for Djokovic to win the Grand Slam next year and get to Nadal’s tally of 22 majors on his favorite hunting ground. While the official confirmation is yet to come, this is a big boost and now remains just the formal confirmation for his next year’s trip Down Under.
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Sarthak Shitole
(3462 Articles Published)