First set, Djokovic.

The legal battle waged by Novak Djokovic to be able to enter Australian territory and play the Australian Open there was "detrimental on all fronts", estimated the ATP Monday after the release of the Serbian.

"The series of events leading up to Monday's hearing have been damaging on all fronts, including Novak's well-being and his preparation for the Australian Open," the body said in a statement.

A judge on Monday revoked the cancellation by the Australian authorities of the player's visa and ordered his release from the immigration detention center in which he had been placed on his arrival in the country, without vaccination against Covid-19.

The Serb immediately trained for the first Grand Slam of the season.

Vaccination "strongly" recommended

"The ATP fully respects the sacrifices that the Australian people have made since the start of Covid-19 and the strict immigration policies that have been put in place," assured the instance.

“The complications that have arisen in recent days regarding the entry of players into Australia have, however, highlighted the need to better understand, communicate and apply the rules.

"

Regarding the world No.1, ATP said that "by going to Melbourne, it is clear that Novak Djokovic thought he had obtained a medical exemption necessary to comply with the entry rules".

However, the body concluded by recommending "strongly" to all players to be vaccinated.

"This recommendation is based on scientific evidence, health benefits and the need to comply with international travel regulations," ATP said.

Possible eviction

“Despite everything that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete in the Australian Open.

I came here to play one of the most important tournaments in front of incredible spectators, ”said the Serbian on Twitter.

But with a week before the start of the Australian Open (January 17-30), Christopher Tran, a government lawyer, warned that Canberra could still decide to expel the player, which would result in him being banned from all entry into the territory for three years.

Djokovic aims to offer himself in Australia a 21st Grand Slam tournament which would place him at the top of tennis history, ahead of his historic rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

  • Anti-covid vaccine

  • Coronavirus

  • Novak Djokovic

  • Australian Open

  • Australia

  • Sport

  • Tennis

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