Novak Djokovic set to be deported from Australia
The tennis star has lost his visa appeal ahead of the Australian Open.
Last updated 16th Jan 2022
Novak Djokovic has lost his visa appeal ahead of the Australian Open, meaning he now faces being deported.
The world number one was due to begin defending his title there tomorrow but will instead be heading home.
The Australian government argued the unvaccinated player shouldn't be allowed to stay in the country on public health grounds.
The 34-year-old has been waiting since Monday for a decision when his visa was originally cancelled.
In a statement via The Age newspaper in Melbourne, Djokovic said:
"I would like to make a brief statement to address the outcomes of today's court hearing. I will now be taking some time to rest and to recuperate, before making any further comments beyond this.
"I am extremely disappointed with the ruling to dismiss my application for judicial review of the minister's decision to cancel my visa, which means I cannot stay in Australia and participate in the Australian Open.
"I respect the court's ruling and I'll cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country.
"I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and tournament I love.
"I would like to wish the players, tournament officials, staff, volunteers and fans all the best for the tournament.
"Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans and my fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me."