“Oh the left-wing tears are going to be sweet” Fans rejoice on Novak Djokovic getting his visa ban overturned to play the 2023 Australian Open
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Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic and his fans are having a great start to their day following the news coming in from Australia. As per reports, confirmed by many credible sources, Australian Immigration minister Andrew Giles has decided to overturn the Serb’s visa ban and grant him his visa once again.
This will allow Djokovic to re-enter the country as the compulsory vaccination policy for foreigners is also lifted. This will allow Djokovic to compete at the upcoming 2023 Australian Open where he can go for his 22nd Grand Slam title and his 10th Australian Open title.
Despite his unvaccinated status against Covid-19, Djokovic had flown to Australia on the basis of being cleared by the government’s medical committee. He was however denied entry and taken to a federal quarantine facility where he spent 6 of his 10 days as he fought two legal battles before being deported on the eve of his round 1 match.
The episode in Australia definitely had a big impact on Djokovic’s mental health and he did not return to the Tour till late February. While he composed himself and did manage to win the 2022 Wimbledon, he was nevertheless subjected to criticism for the fiasco in Australia where he was not at fault given he had the clearance.
Also Read: Novak Djokovic set to play at the 2023 Australian Open after Federal government overturns visa ban
Novak Djokovic’s fans elated upon hearing the Serb’s clearance for next year’s Australian Open
Djokovic had won the first court case that granted him entry into the country and he even had training sessions in Melbourne Park. His visa was then however canceled once again by then Immigration Minister Alex Hawke who used his veto power as the minister.
The second court case was ruled against Djokovic and the Serb was deported immediately while also getting a ban of 3 years from entering the country. Despite the odds favorite for the Grand Slam, Djokovic had to see arch-rival Rafael Nadal win the Grand Slam and become the first man to win 21 majors which he further extended to 22 by winning the 2022 French Open.
While the government is yet to announce the official confirmation, Djokovic’s participation is almost confirmed for next year’s major. This will be a big boost to the Grand Slam race between him and Nadal as he can match the Spaniard on 22 majors while also stopping his title defense this year.
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Sarthak Shitole
(3462 Articles Published)