Djokovic’s situation is well known. A vaccination is required to enter Australia, but the Serb is not. He waves with a medical exemption (due to a recent corona infection) to participate in the Australian Open.
His visa was initially rejected by customs, but a judge overturned that decision. The immigration minister may still personally expel Djokovic from the country, but that decision is pending.
The official draw could already have made it clear whether the number 1 in the world would be included. The draw was also postponed by 75 minutes today, so the minister’s decision was presumed to be pending.
In the end, Djokovic’s name just went into the computer drum, good for a Serbian duel. The 34-year-old defending champion drew his 22-year-old compatriot Kecmanovic (ATP-78).
But the uncertainty about his visa remains. No decision has yet been made on his visa, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. Immigration Secretary Alex Hawke is still investigating the case.
Djokovic can raise the trophy for a 10th time in Melbourne, that would also be a 21st Grand Slam title. He now shares the record of 20 with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
