By Victor Kanayo
The Australian Government is reportedly considering making a u-turn on a three-year visa ban earlier pronounced on Tennis star Novak Djokovic ahead of Australian Open in 2023.
According to The Guardian, the current Australian Immigration Minister, Andrew Giles, will grant the Serbian a visa to enter the country, something he was denied previously due to his refusal to be vaccinated against the coronavirus, with the Australian authorities opting to make an example of him.
Djokovic lost his case in federal court after winning the first instance. In the end, the opinion of previous immigration minister Alex Hawke proved to be decisive.
The change of government in Australia was one of the keys to the success of the Balkan tennis player’s lawyers.
Djokovic will thus be eligible to compete for his 10th title at Melbourne Park, set to take place between Jumar 16 and January 30, 2023.
At 35 years of age, he remains the only unvaccinated top 100 player, although the relaxation of Australia’s qualifying rules will allow him to compete in the Australian Open.
It is worth remembering that the Serb has missed six of the most important tournaments on the calendar this season: including the Australian Open, US Open and the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells, Miami, Montreal and Cincinnati.
Djokovic also plans to spend his pre-season in Marbella in December before traveling to Dubai to play in the new Tennis League from December 19 to December 24.
Djokovic has since won Wimbledon but still trails Nadal by one after the Spaniard beat him in the final of the French Open.
The tennis player has not signed up for the first edition of the United Cup.
