Djokovic’s visa was revoked at Melbourne Airport as Border Forces deemed he failed to meet Australia’s entry requirements for unvaccinated individuals. The verdict was overturned in federal court.
However, his visa was canceled for a second time after the Minister for Immigration felt his presence in the country could incite “anti-vaxx sentiments”. The World No. 1 was subsequently deported and could not defend his title at the Australian Open.
Djokovic was vilified by a majority of tennis fans during the entire saga, although he found a surprise ally in Kyrgios. Speaking on the Kyle and Jackie O radio show, the Aussie disclosed that the Serb reached out to him in an attempt to understand the Australian community’s stance.
This is not the first time Kyrgios has jumped to the 20-time Major winner’s defense. Last month, the Aussie criticized the way the Serb was being treated during his stay in Melbourne. He also hit out at the local public for turning their backs on the nine-time Australian Open champion.
Novak Djokovic scheduled to play in Dubai
Novak Djokovic will try to put the controversy in Melbourne behind him when he competes in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships later this month. The Serb is a five-time titlist in Dubai, but did not defend his crown last year.
Djokovic will be joined by the likes of Andrey Rublev, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Jannik Sinner and Hubert Hurkacz at the ATP 500 event.
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