Novak Djokovic news: Statement from ‘uncomfortable’ world No 1 after he loses visa appeal

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Novak Djokovic in action

Novak Djokovic has expressed his disappointment after losing his judicial review against the cancellation of his Australian visa, adding that he is “uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me”.

Chief Justice James Allsop, Justice Anthony Besanko and Justice David O’Callaghan on Sunday unanimously upheld Immigration Minister Alex Hawke’s decision to cancel Djokovic’s visa for a second time and ordered that the world No 1 be deported.

The three judges deliberated for more than two hours before Chief Justice Allsop delivered the verdict just before 6pm in Melbourne, stating: “The orders of the court are, one: the amended application to be dismissed. Two: reasons to be published at a later date.”

Novak Djokovic news: It’s all over for world No 1 as he loses appeal and court confirms his deportation

After the ruling, Djokovic gave a statement.

“I’d like to make a brief statement to address the outcomes of today’s Court hearing. I will now be taking some time to rest and to recuperate, before making any further comments beyond this,” he said.

“I am extremely disappointed with the ruling to dismiss my application for judicial review of the decision to cancel my visa, which means I cannot stay in Australia and participate in the Australian Open.

“I respect the Court’s ruling and I’ll cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from Australia.

“I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and tournament I love. I would like to wish the players, tournament officials, staff, volunteers and fans all the best for the tournament.

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans and my fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me.”

Novak Djokovic

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