Australian Government Cancels Novak Djokovic's Entry Visa Again Over 'Vaccine Refusal'... Detained in Holding Facility

Novak Djokovic [Photo by Wimbledon Official Website]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] Novak Djokovic (35, Serbia), the world No. 1 male tennis player, was reportedly re-detained in Australia on the 15th (local time).

According to court documents obtained by AFP on the same day, Djokovic is currently staying at a detention facility in Melbourne. This measure was taken after the Australian government once again canceled his entry visa on the 15th, citing his unvaccinated status against COVID-19, following the initial cancellation on the 6th.

He will remain in this facility until the outcome of his visa cancellation lawsuit filed with the Australian court is decided.

The Australian government stated that Djokovic's case could potentially fuel anti-COVID-19 vaccine sentiments.

Djokovic has been staying in Melbourne to participate in the Australian Open, which opens on the 17th, but on the 14th, Alex Hawke, the Australian Minister for Immigration, canceled his Australian visa by executive decision.

Djokovic, who arrived in Australia on the 5th to compete in the tournament, has had his visa invalidated for the second time following the cancellation on the 6th.

The Australian court plans to hold a final hearing by the 16th, the day before the tournament begins.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.