Novak Djokovic has finally been included in the official draw for the Australian Open after the draw was delayed on Thursday (January 13). The delay was caused because it was not clear whether the Serbian will have to face cancellation of his visa for the second time in a month.
The tussle between Novak Djokovic and Australian Open is no more restricted within the two only, it has started directly impacting the other players and needless to mention the tournament’s fate also seems to be pretty uncertain as the official draw of the event was delayed too add more drama to the latest developments.
The delay reportedly took place “at short notice” and no explanation has been received regarding the incident.
Future uncertain
The defending Australian Open champion still remains as the men’s No. 1 but a lot still depends on multiple things. First of all, it is not clear whether the Serbian is going to have is visa revoked. Apart from that it is still uncertain whether Djokovic will be ordered to leave the country or he will get the green signal to stay in Australia and take part in the Grand Slam.
Previously, Djokovic had come out and issued an official statement regarding the incidents that had taken place since he arrived in Australia.
“I want to address the continuing misinformation about my activities and attendance at events in December in the lead up to my positive PCR COVID test result.
“This is misinformation which needs to be corrected, particularly in the interest of alleviating broader concern in the community about my presence in Australia, and to address matters which are very hurtful and concerning to my family,” Djokovic said in an official statement.
Positive PCR test result
Djokovic moreover, talked about the highly debated positive PCR test result.
"I was asymptomatic and felt good, and I had not received the notification of a positive PCR test result until after that event.
“The next day, on 18 December I was at my tennis centre in Belgrade to fulfil a longstanding commitment for a L'Equipe interview and photoshoot. I cancelled all other events except for the L'Equipe interview.”
Regarding the travel declaration that was produced by the Djokovic’s support team received a huge backlash and now according to Djokovic there was a “human error” that caused an administrative mistake.
“On the issue of my travel declaration, this was submitted by my support team on my behalf – as I told immigration officials on my arrival - and my agent sincerely apologises for the administrative mistake in ticking the incorrect box about my previous travel before coming to Australia. This was a human error and certainly in a global pandemic and sometimes these mistakes can occur. Today, my team has provided additional information to the Australian Government to clarify this matter."