Novak Djokovic allowed to play 2023 Australian Open after visa ban overturned: Report

Melbourne: Novak Djokovic will be allowed to contest the 2023 Australian Open after his visa ban was reportedly overturned by the federal government. He was deported in January and barred from competing at the tournament in Melbourne for not being vaccinated against the coronavirus. The deportation meant Djokovic was denied entry into Australia for three years unless the player could prove his case for a reversal. The Australian Border Force had previously explained that exclusion period could be waived in certain circumstances — and that each case would be assessed on its merits. Djokovic’s early exit took place before he could take court at the Melbourne Park after then Australia immigration minister Alex Hawke cancelled the Serb’s visa “in the public interest”. Timeline: Novak Djokovic's failed bid to play 2022 Australian Open Australian Open director Craig Tiley on Tuesday had said he was hopeful Djokovic could return for next year’s tournament. “That’s entirely up to the Australian government. I know Novak wants to come and play and to get back to competing,” he said. “He loves Australia and it’s where he’s had the best success but the timing [on any announcement] is up to somebody else and we’ll just play that one by ear.” Competing at the ATP Finals in Turin , Djokovic was asked about the position and he said no agreement had been reached. “Nothing official yet,” he said . “We are waiting. They are communicating with the government of Australia. That’s all I can tell you for now.” In January, Djokovic was taken into a detention centre upon arrival having not been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Despite obtaining exemption from medical panels and Tennis Australia, Djokovic had his visa cancelled. The nine-time Australian Open champion appealed against the decision but just days before the tournament, Hawke used his ministerial powers to cancel Djokovic’s visa. Australia has had a change of government since and changed their border rules this year. Since July, incoming travellers no longer have to provide proof of receiving shots against COVID-19. That removed the major barrier to entry for Djokovic, who says he has not been — and will not be — vaccinated against the coronavirus, even if it means he misses important tennis tournaments. Indeed, he sat out the US Open in September, and other events in the United States, because he could not fly into the country as an unvaccinated foreign citizen. Australia’s changes allowed Djokovic to apply to current Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to reconsider his visa status. In Djokovic’s favor were two other factors: He left Australia quickly after his visa was revoked 10 months ago, and he has not publicly criticized Australian authorities. (with inputs from AP) Read all the  Latest News ****,  Trending News ****,  Cricket News ****,  Bollywood News ****,  India News  and  Entertainment News  here. Follow us on  Facebook****,  Twitter and  Instagram****.