Djokovic denied entry into Australia over visa mishap amid vaccine controversy

Tennis player Novak Djokovic was reportedly denied entry to Australia by the Victorian government because of a visa mishap that required proof of vaccination.

Upon arrival in Australia, Djokovic was stopped at border control. The visa mistake was discovered while Djokovic was already on a 14-hour flight from Dubai to Melbourne.

Reportedly, a member of Djokovic’s team requested a visa that does not apply to people granted medical exemptions from COVID-19 vaccinations.

The Australian Border Force applied for an exemption for Djokovic, which was denied by the state of Victoria.

Victorian Sports Minister Jaala Pulford wrote on Twitter, “We will not be providing Novak Djokovic with individual visa application support to participate in the 2022 Australian Open grand slam. We’ve always been clear on two points: Visa approvals are a matter for the federal government, and medical exemptions are a matter for doctors.”

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison previously emphasized that Djokovic would be required to show evidence for a medical exemption or else “he’ll be on the next plane home.”

Djokovic was previously granted a medical exemption to compete in the Australian Open from the tournament organizers although he is unvaccinated for COVID-19.

In order to participate in the tournament, players must be vaccinated or granted an exemption by an expert independent panel.

Tennis Australia said that Djokovic’s application for a medical exemption was granted after a “rigorous review process,” according to Reuters.