Australian Open: 'Ready to welcome Djokovic but won't lobby for him' - Tennis Australia

It has been 9 months since former World No. 1 Novak Djokovic was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated against Covid-19. The 35-year-old wasn't allowed to defend his title after a 10-day legal battle with the Federal government, which eventually saw his visa being revoked on the eve of the tournament.

And now Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has said while they'll welcome the 21-time Grand Slam Champion if he gets the permission this year, they won't be lobbying for him with the Australian govt.

“It is not a matter we can lobby on. It is a matter that definitely stays between the two of them (Djokovic and Australian Govt.)” Australian Open Tournament director Craig Tiley said.

Djokovic was allowed to practice at Melbourne Park after initial success in a court of law last year, but Australia's Immigration Minister Alex Hawke ultimately used discretionary powers to cancel Djokovic's visa on character grounds.

It remains to be seen whether Djokovic will be allowed to participate in the year-opening Grand Slam this time around.