The Australian Open has included Novak Djokovic in the competition’s entry list, despite the government insisting he can’t play unless he is vaccinated.
The world No.1 expected to pursue a medical exemption to compete in the grand slam as a loophole around the requirement, but it is not clear if he will get it.
Tennis Australia has released the official competitors list on Wednesday. Djokovic was named in men’s singles draw in Melbourne, which begins on January 17.
Djokovic, an outspoken Covid vaccine sceptic, has so far refused to reveal if he is immunised against Covid-19 despite Victoria’s strict policy.
Tennis Australia published its official competition list Wednesday, with Novak Djokovic (pictured), named one of the participants in the Men’s Singles Draw for the Season-Opening Major
It is unknown if the 20-time Grand Slam winner will take part in the Australian Open.
Tennis Australia announced last month that only vaccined players will be permitted to play at Melbourne Park. This puts Djokovic’s defense of his title in doubt.
According to the sport’s governing body, players can get around strict quarantine restrictions by getting a “valid medical exemption”.
But Deputy Premier James Merlino downplayed that possibility, as there were There are a limited number of medical reasons that would allow for exemptions.
Djokovic, who contracted the virus while hosting an event in the middle the pandemic, is a vocal anti-vaxxer.
He stated that his view was very clear and simple on Wednesday.
“Everyone is looking forward to Australia Open, and all who attend, including players, officials, and staff, are expected to have their vaccines up to date.
They’re rules. The medical exemptions for tennis are not an exception to the rule.
If you are suffering from an acute condition, it is possible to get a medical exemption.
“So, my view, and I believe the view of all Victorians, (and) the expectation for all Victorians is to ensure that every person who comes to the Open, whether they are a spectator or a player, is fully vaccinated.”
News Corp said that Djokovic appears to have grounds to request the exemption. Officials from Tennis Australia are backing him.
Djokovic refused to answer any questions concerning his availability for the first grand slam.
‘[The rules]Tennis Australia stated that certified proof of vaccination must be provided or an exemption from medical treatment has been approved by Australian officials.
“Health officials also stated that all international arrivals will be required to remain in quarantine for 14 day if they do not meet the requirements.
Tennis Australia refuted the idea that it sought ‘loopholes to allow Djokovic into the country.
Tennis Australia advised Daily Mail Australia that any request for a medical exemption should be based on strict government guidelines.
“This is the exact same procedure that’s used by anyone who wishes to come to Australia.
The decision-making process regarding medical exemptions should be left to independent medical specialists. This is not something we can influence and would never do.
Novak Djokovic confirmed Tuesday that he would participate in the ATP Cup Sydney – strong evidence Novak Djokovic is vaccinated. Novak Djokovic will be playing at the Australian Open
To complete the 14-day quarantine, Djokovic would have to be vaccinated if he is not vaccinated.
Even after being quarantined, he will still be prohibited from playing in the Australian Open.
On Tuesday, the 34-year old confirmed that he will participate in the warm up ATP Cup event in Sydney from January 1 through 9.
The ATP released a statement online stating that the top seed Serbia will be dominated by World No.1 Novak Djokovic. Group A will include Spain, Chile, Norway and Chile.
Djokovic holds the record for most Australian Open victories of any player.
So far, he has refused to answer questions regarding his availability to the first grand slam. He stated in an interview last summer that he would need to think about the future of the sport if mandatory vaccinations are required.
“My problem with vaccinations is when someone forces me to inject something into my body. It’s something that I refuse to do. That’s not acceptable to me,’ he said to the New York Times.
Novak Djokovic photographed with Jelena. Tennis Australia stated last month that in January, only players with double jabbed will be allowed at Melbourne Park.
Due to the constant’mutation’ of the virus, he asked questions about the Covid vaccination.
Last month, the 34-year old said that he had not yet spoken to Tennis Australia to discuss his eligibility to participate in the competition.
To be truthful, I haven’t spoken to them. “I was only waiting to hear the latest news and now I know that we’ll have to just wait and watch,” he stated.
“I am aware that you are looking for answers as to where and how I will start this new season. However, we’ll have to wait and see the future.
“I cannot give you a date but the Australian Open will be coming very soon so I’ll let you know as soon as possible.”