Novak Djokovic on Australian Open entry list as officials deny reports of vaccination ‘loophole’

Defending champion Novak Djokovic’s name is on the official entry list for the 2022 Australian Open, but officials have dismissed any suggestion that there is a loophole that will allow him to play without being vaccinated against Covid-19.
There has been a cloud of uncertainty surrounding Djokovic’s participation in the season-opening Grand Slam following Tennis Australia’s announcement that only fully vaccinated players will be allowed to compete.
The nine-time Australian Open champion had adopted a “wait and see” policy as he has refused to reveal his vaccination status.
However, following his inclusion in Serbia’s ATP Cup squad, there were suggestions that a loophole could see him play at Melbourne Park without being fully vaccinated.
Under the supposed clause, Djokovic would be able to apply for an exemption to compete at the ATP Cup in Sydney, but would have to quarantine for 14 days.
Once his quarantine period is over, he would be free to move to the state of Victoria to compete at the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
However, Victoria Deputy Premier James Merlino shot down the claims.
“My view on this is is really clear and really simple,” he said.
“Everyone’s looking forward to the Australian Open and everyone who will attend – spectators, players, officials, staff – everyone is expected to be fully vaccinated.
“They’re the rules. Medical exemptions are just that – it’s not a loophole for privileged tennis players.
“It is a medical exemption in exceptional circumstances if you have an acute medical condition.
“My view, and I think the view of all Victorians, the expectation of all Victorians, is that everyone who attends the Open – player, spectator, staff, officials, everyone’s fully vaccinated.”
Tennis Australia also issued a statement to “confirm that everyone entering Australia for the summer of tennis will need to meet the strict requirements set by health authorities across the country”.
“All players, participants and staff at the Australian Open have to be vaccinated,” the statement read.
“Any application for a medical exemption must follow strict government guidelines based on ATAGI (Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) clinical advice.
“This is the same process that applies to any person wanting to enter Australia. Any suggestion that Tennis Australia is seeking ‘loopholes’ within this process is simply untrue.”
Latest
-
Australian Open
Novak Djokovic vs Stefanos Tsitsipas labelled a dream final
It is almost time to settle the new World No 1.
-
Australian Open
Inside story on the technology propelling Stefanos Tsitsipas to the top
Adidas have taken its tennis offering to a new level with the release of their Adizero Cybersonic tennis shoe.
-
News
Australian Open day 12 wrap: Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas set popcorn final
Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid won their fourth successive Australian Open title in men’s wheelchair doubles.
-
Australian Open
Elena Rybakina made Australian Open favourite despite poor record against Aryna Sabalenka
Elena Rybakina’s experience of winning a Grand Slam gives her the edge.
-
Australian Open
2023 Australian Open men’s final info, form, H2H, what they said, preview: Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Novak Djokovic
Get all the info ahead of the Australian Open men’s final.
-
Australian Open
WATCH: Emotional Novak Djokovic makes his point at press conference
Novak Djokovic admitted he has been shaken by the storm around his father after pro-Russian flag photo.
-
Australian Open
Novak Djokovic hopes to draw a line under Russian flag controversy
Novak Djokovic has released a statement clarifying the family position.
-
Australian Open
Aryna Sabalenka in control of her own Australian Open destiny: ‘I’m my psychologist’
Aryna Sabalenka will take on Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the final.
-
Australian Open
Novak Djokovic stays in hunt for La Decima at Australian Open despite meltdown, tantrum, unforced errors galore
Novak Djokovic one Australian Open win away from La Decima.
-
News
Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid do it again as they win fourth Australian Open title in a row
The pair were dominant in victory over Dutch duo Maikel Scheffers and Ruben Spaargaren.