Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic is set to return to Australia much sooner than anticipated as his ban on entering the country is expected to be rescinded.
Djokovic’s three-year visa ban came after he was deported from Australia in January, when his medical exemption for the COVID-19 vaccination was denied, subsequently canceling his visa. His appeals were also denied on the grounds of public interest so as not to “excite anti-vax sentiment.”
With unvaccinated travelers now permitted to enter Australia, Djokovic will be allowed to compete in the Australian Open as authorities may have decided to overturn the visa ban, according to reports.
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The news comes as recently elected Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who is a well-known tennis fan, is reportedly concerned over the Australian Open’s nine-time winner being absent from the event.
Djokovic missed this past weekend’s U.S. Open due to his unvaccinated status.
“I was never against vaccination, but I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body,” Djokovic has said regarding missing competitions. “That is the price I am willing to pay.”
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With missing two Slams this year and being unable to claim points in Wimbledon, Djokovic’s ranking has fallen to No. 7. Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz won Sunday night’s U.S. Open, becoming No. 1.
