Tennis world number one Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;landed in Dubai on Monday after his sensational deportation from Australia over his coronavirus vaccination status shattered his dream of scoring a record 21st Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

As the Australian Open got under way, the men's defending champion stepped off an Emirates plane carrying two bags and wearing a mask- his final destination unknown.

The tennis star walked off the aircraft, having landed at&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;International Airport at 5:32 am local time (0132 GMT).

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-foreign-minister-says-no-convenient-exceptions-over-tennis-star-novak-djokovics-visa-saga-445313">Australian foreign minister says no 'convenient exceptions' over tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa saga</a>

The dramatic deportation followed a protracted and high-stakes legal battle between the unvaccinated&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;and the Australian authorities that polarised opinion and tarnished reputations on both sides.

Djokovic&nbsp;said he was "extremely disappointed" after a Federal Court.&nbsp;

The world number one was supposed to be the headline act in the opening night session of the Australian Open on Monday, but the unvaccinated Serbian is not defending his title after a court threw out his bid to stay in the country.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic landed in Dubai on Monday after his sensational deportation from Australia over his coronavirus vaccination status shattered his dream of scoring a record 21st Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic landed in Dubai on Monday after his sensational deportation from Australia over his coronavirus vaccination status shattered his dream of scoring a record 21st Grand Slam title in Melbourne. As the Australian Open got under way, the men's defending champion stepped off an Emirates plane carrying two bags and wearing a mask- his final destination unknown. The tennis star walked off the aircraft, having landed at Dubai International Airport at 5:32 am local time (0132 GMT). Read Also | Australian foreign minister says no 'convenient exceptions' over tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa saga The dramatic deportation followed a protracted and high-stakes legal battle between the unvaccinated Djokovic and the Australian authorities that polarised opinion and tarnished reputations on both sides. Djokovic said he was "extremely disappointed" after a Federal Court. The world number one was supposed to be the headline act in the opening night session of the Australian Open on Monday, but the unvaccinated Serbian is not defending his title after a court threw out his bid to stay in the country.

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic arrives in Dubai following deportation from Australia

All athletes who wish to compete in France will have to be vaccinated against Covid-19, government sources told AFP on Monday.

This appears to contradict what Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu said last week, that certain events like the French Open had a special exemption, when asked whether Novak Djokovic could play in the tournament.

For ordinary citizens entering France, it is not obligatory to be vaccinated but will be for those wishing to enter an establishment which has a public attendance (ERP).

Major events like the French Open previously permitted non-vaccinated athletes to compete as they operated a health bubble round the tournament.&nbsp;

The first major event to be directly affected would be the upcoming Six Nations rugby championship when France will host Italy (Feb 6), Ireland (Feb 12) and England (March 19). &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This measure would dash 34-year-old Djokovic's hopes of defending the title and potentially an unprecedented 21st Grand Slam singles crown.

Rafael Nadal could move one ahead of him and Roger Federer if he wins the Australian Open.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-deported-how-entire-australian-open-visa-saga-unfolded-445238">Novak Djokovic deported: How entire Australian Open visa saga unfolded</a>

Djokovic's dreams of playing in it were dashed on Sunday when he was deported from Australia over his coronavirus vaccination status.

Djokovic's hopes of a Grand Slam success in 2022 would then rest on Wimbledon as New York vaccination rules would rule him out of the US Open.

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All athletes who wish to compete in France will have to be vaccinated against Covid-19, government sources told AFP on Monday. This appears to contradict what Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu said last week, that certain events like the French Open had a special exemption, when asked whether Novak Djokovic could play in the tournament.

All athletes who wish to compete in France will have to be vaccinated against Covid-19, government sources told AFP on Monday. This appears to contradict what Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu said last week, that certain events like the French Open had a special exemption, when asked whether Novak Djokovic could play in the tournament. For ordinary citizens entering France, it is not obligatory to be vaccinated but will be for those wishing to enter an establishment which has a public attendance (ERP). Major events like the French Open previously permitted non-vaccinated athletes to compete as they operated a health bubble round the tournament. The first major event to be directly affected would be the upcoming Six Nations rugby championship when France will host Italy (Feb 6), Ireland (Feb 12) and England (March 19). This measure would dash 34-year-old Djokovic's hopes of defending the title and potentially an unprecedented 21st Grand Slam singles crown. Rafael Nadal could move one ahead of him and Roger Federer if he wins the Australian Open. Also Read: Novak Djokovic deported: How entire Australian Open visa saga unfolded Djokovic's dreams of playing in it were dashed on Sunday when he was deported from Australia over his coronavirus vaccination status. Djokovic's hopes of a Grand Slam success in 2022 would then rest on Wimbledon as New York vaccination rules would rule him out of the US Open.

Covid vaccination required for athletes competing in France, says government source

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter&nbsp;given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans&nbsp;captaincy responsibilities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316">'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</a>

Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254">Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</a>

"I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. &nbsp;

The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper. Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans captaincy responsibilities. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said. ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy "I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs

Rishabh Pant was the lone shining point for Team India in the third and final Test against South Africa, in Cape Town, before the Virat Kohli-led side went down to the Proteas by seven wickets to lose the series 2-1. Pant slammed his fourth ton in the purest format and became the first Indian wicketkeeper to slam a hundred in South Africa, England and Australia.

During the second innings, India were in trouble reeling at 58-4, with a first-innings lead of 13 runs, before Pant played a sensible knock to reach three figures despite India being dismissed for 198, setting up a 212-run target for the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. Elgar &amp; Co. chased down the target by seven wickets on Day 4 of the third and final Test to win the series 2-1.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishsbh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-445365">Yuvraj Singh reacts as Sunil Gavaskar picks Rishsbh Pant to replace Virat Kohli as India's new Test captain</a>

During a discussion on&nbsp;ESPN Cricinfo, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar hailed Pant for playing an 'unselfish' knock in the low-scoring third Test. “How unselfish was that innings. He was only focused on prolonging that innings, not worried about getting that hundred. He has got out in the 90s a couple of times. This is a guy who plays for his team and that was amply evident,” Manjrekar said.&nbsp;

"Lot of big-name batters would have quickly got a hundred and then decided ‘let me see what I can do’. He was constantly thinking of just one goal - to extend the innings,” the former Indian cricketer and full-time pundit lauded the 24-year-old swashbuckling left-hander.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-is-not-anyones-birthright-gambhir-hopes-virat-kohli-can-be-at-his-dominant-best-in-sa-odis-445355">Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs</a>

Pant will now shift his focus to the forthcoming three-match ODI series between India and Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The series will commence on January 19 at Paarl. For the unversed, Pant hasn't scored a hundred in the limited-overs format and, hence, he will be eager to make the most of the three ODIs versus the African nation.

Rishabh Pant was the lone shining point for Team India in the third and final Test against South Africa, in Cape Town, before the Virat Kohli-led side went down to the Proteas by seven wickets to lose the series 2-1.

Rishabh Pant was the lone shining point for Team India in the third and final Test against South Africa, in Cape Town, before the Virat Kohli-led side went down to the Proteas by seven wickets to lose the series 2-1. Pant slammed his fourth ton in the purest format and became the first Indian wicketkeeper to slam a hundred in South Africa, England and Australia. During the second innings, India were in trouble reeling at 58-4, with a first-innings lead of 13 runs, before Pant played a sensible knock to reach three figures despite India being dismissed for 198, setting up a 212-run target for the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. Elgar & Co. chased down the target by seven wickets on Day 4 of the third and final Test to win the series 2-1. ALSO READ | Yuvraj Singh reacts as Sunil Gavaskar picks Rishsbh Pant to replace Virat Kohli as India's new Test captain During a discussion on ESPN Cricinfo, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar hailed Pant for playing an 'unselfish' knock in the low-scoring third Test. “How unselfish was that innings. He was only focused on prolonging that innings, not worried about getting that hundred. He has got out in the 90s a couple of times. This is a guy who plays for his team and that was amply evident,” Manjrekar said. "Lot of big-name batters would have quickly got a hundred and then decided ‘let me see what I can do’. He was constantly thinking of just one goal - to extend the innings,” the former Indian cricketer and full-time pundit lauded the 24-year-old swashbuckling left-hander. ALSO READ | Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs Pant will now shift his focus to the forthcoming three-match ODI series between India and Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The series will commence on January 19 at Paarl. For the unversed, Pant hasn't scored a hundred in the limited-overs format and, hence, he will be eager to make the most of the three ODIs versus the African nation.

'He was not worried about....': Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Rishabh Pant for 'unselfish' ton vs SA in 3rd Test

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;launched his bid for a record 21st Grand Slam title Monday in blistering fashion -- a far cry from his "ugly" predicament one month ago and recent injury problems.

Nadal, the only Australian Open champion in the men's draw after nine-time winner Novak Djokovic's banishment on the eve of the tournament, was all guns blazing in a spectacular first-round win on Rod Laver Arena.

The Spanish sixth seed, who beat Roger Federer for the 2009 Australian title and is vying with Djokovic and Federer to reach a record 21st Grand Slam crown, bludgeoned American Marcos Giron 6-1, 6-4, 6-2.

In an impressive 1hr 49min performance,&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;began with an ace and peppered the world number 66 Giron with 34 winners -- 14 of them with his famed forehand -- and won 84 percent of his first serves.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-foreign-minister-says-no-convenient-exceptions-over-tennis-star-novak-djokovics-visa-saga-445313">Australian foreign minister says no 'convenient exceptions' over tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa saga</a>

It follows 35-year-old&nbsp;Nadal's 89th Tour title when the veteran great swept through the field last week to win a warm-up event at Melbourne Park, having had Covid only last month and suffered a foot injury in 2021.

"Twelve events in two years are not many,"&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said, reflecting on an injury-marred couple of years.

"If we add that I was not able to practise very often, too, it's a really tough one.

"But here I am. I am super happy about all the work that we have done to try to be back. We are here enjoying the tennis, and that's it. We're going to keep trying hard.

"I need time on the Tour to try and recover the level that I need to fight for the things that I want and be healthy.

"If that happens, I hope to keep having chances to keep going and fight for the things."

Warhorse&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;ended his season in August because of his foot, then contracted Covid-19 in December, saying it left him "very sick".

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australias-deportation-of-novak-djokovic-is-scandalous-says-serbian-prime-minister-445246">Australia's deportation of Novak Djokovic is scandalous, says Serbian Prime Minister</a>

"I tell you one thing, the knees have been better than ever after that period of time. But the foot was worse than ever for the last year and a half," he said.

"I always had the problem with the foot during all my tennis career that sometimes especially on the cold conditions I suffered a lot.

"But I was able to play all my career with not many limitations in terms of competing in the tournaments.

"Today is one victory in the first Grand Slam. Happy for that. One month ago situation had been different -- looks very ugly in some way.

"Now here we are."

Nadal&nbsp;will next play Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Germany's Yannick Hanfmann.

Rafael Nadal launched his bid for a record 21st Grand Slam title Monday in blistering fashion -- a far cry from his "ugly" predicament one month ago and recent injury problems.

Rafael Nadal launched his bid for a record 21st Grand Slam title Monday in blistering fashion -- a far cry from his "ugly" predicament one month ago and recent injury problems. Nadal, the only Australian Open champion in the men's draw after nine-time winner Novak Djokovic's banishment on the eve of the tournament, was all guns blazing in a spectacular first-round win on Rod Laver Arena. The Spanish sixth seed, who beat Roger Federer for the 2009 Australian title and is vying with Djokovic and Federer to reach a record 21st Grand Slam crown, bludgeoned American Marcos Giron 6-1, 6-4, 6-2. In an impressive 1hr 49min performance, Nadal began with an ace and peppered the world number 66 Giron with 34 winners -- 14 of them with his famed forehand -- and won 84 percent of his first serves. Read Also | Australian foreign minister says no 'convenient exceptions' over tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa saga It follows 35-year-old Nadal's 89th Tour title when the veteran great swept through the field last week to win a warm-up event at Melbourne Park, having had Covid only last month and suffered a foot injury in 2021. "Twelve events in two years are not many," Nadal said, reflecting on an injury-marred couple of years. "If we add that I was not able to practise very often, too, it's a really tough one. "But here I am. I am super happy about all the work that we have done to try to be back. We are here enjoying the tennis, and that's it. We're going to keep trying hard. "I need time on the Tour to try and recover the level that I need to fight for the things that I want and be healthy. "If that happens, I hope to keep having chances to keep going and fight for the things." Warhorse Nadal ended his season in August because of his foot, then contracted Covid-19 in December, saying it left him "very sick". Read Also | Australia's deportation of Novak Djokovic is scandalous, says Serbian Prime Minister "I tell you one thing, the knees have been better than ever after that period of time. But the foot was worse than ever for the last year and a half," he said. "I always had the problem with the foot during all my tennis career that sometimes especially on the cold conditions I suffered a lot. "But I was able to play all my career with not many limitations in terms of competing in the tournaments. "Today is one victory in the first Grand Slam. Happy for that. One month ago situation had been different -- looks very ugly in some way. "Now here we are." Nadal will next play Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Germany's Yannick Hanfmann.

Aus Open: Rafael Nadal makes stunning start in his quest to win a record 21st Grand Slam

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee tournament, the nine-time Australian Open champion Djokovic landed in Melbourne, on January 4, with a medical exemption for Covid-19 vaccination. For the unversed, ATP had made it clear that all players need to be fully vaccinated to take part in the Aus Open. The Serbian, however, got an exemption from the Victorian government before travelling Down Under.&nbsp;

On his arrival, Djokovic was taken aback with his exemption being tarnished and his visa getting cancelled. As a result, he was sent to a detention center, i.e. an immigration hotel in Melbourne, for four days before his lawyers managed to free him as Australian Judge Anthony&nbsp;Kelly ordered his release, on January 10, with immediate effect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kicking-him-whilst-hes-down-says-andy-murray-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-saga-444770">Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga</a>

Djokovic's Aus Open saga didn't die down there itself. As the Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke comprises discretionary personal powers to revoke anyone's visa on various grounds, he did the same for the Serbian on Friday (January 14). "Today I exercised my power... to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so," the Immigration Minister said in a statement.

On the other hand, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison&nbsp;said that the decision followed "careful consideration".

Amid all this, the 34-year-old Djokovic admitted to have breached Covid protocols as he went ahead with an interview to a French-newspaper L'equipe's journalist&nbsp;despite a positive report with regard to the infection in December, 2021.&nbsp;

In addition, Djokovic shifted the blame on his agent for incorrectly filling details in his travel form on arrival Down Under (he also&nbsp;acknowledged that his travel declaration form contained falsehoods about his whereabouts the 14 days preceding his flight to Australia).

Thus, Djokovic has dug his own grave in many ways ahead of the Aus Open. As the entire saga continues to get complicated with each passing day,&nbsp;with the star player set to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on January 15 (Saturday),&nbsp;here's reliving some big controversies surrounding the Serbian:&nbsp;

1)Hitting female line judge

During the 2020 US Open, Djokovic was disqualified after hitting a female line judge in frustration during his fourth-round match versus Spain's Pablo Busta.&nbsp;

The Serbian did so after a fall and dropping a serve to trail 5-6. While it wasn't intentional, Djokovic's fate was sealed under the Grand Slam rules. After the incident, Djokovic had said in a statement, "This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the linesperson and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling OK. I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-draw-shaken-up-with-world-no-1-novak-djokovics-visa-cancellation-444677">Australian Open draw shaken up with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's visa cancellation</a>

2) The infamous Covid tour

Amit the pandemic, in 2020, Djokovic has organised an Adrian tour,&nbsp;i.e. a series of exhibition games in Balkans with professional tennis entirely shut down.&nbsp;

However, the tournament was abandoned due to Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov testing positive. As a result, Djokovic, his wife and many other players also tested positive.&nbsp;The players were heavily criticised for embaring a nightclub and partying during the pandemic.&nbsp;

3) 'Djokovic is a tool'

During the 2021 Aus Open, Djokovic arrived in Melbourne and again landed himself in controversy by demanding that tennis players should be given private homes along with tennis courts.&nbsp;

To this, Aussie player Nick Krygios tweeted in response by saying, "Djokovic is a tool."

4) Exaggerating injuries and taking medical breaks

Djokovic has been accused of taking unnecessary medical breaks and exaggerating injuries whenever the going gets tough for him during a game. In 2008 US Open, he took two medical timeouts during his five-set thrilling win over Tommy Robredo, upsetting the Spaniard.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Djokovic didn't hesitate in breaking the flow of the game once again during his 2020 French Open quarter-final clash versus Carreon Busta.&nbsp;

Back then, Busta had stated, "Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance."

Thus, Djokovic isn't alien to controversies. He, however, is currently going through his biggest battle off the court and dominating the headlines for all the wrong reasons; acting as a buzzkill for many tennis loyalists worldwide prior to the Aus Open.

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. Ahead of the marquee tournament, the nine-time Australian Open champion Djokovic landed in Melbourne, on January 4, with a medical exemption for Covid-19 vaccination. For the unversed, ATP had made it clear that all players need to be fully vaccinated to take part in the Aus Open. The Serbian, however, got an exemption from the Victorian government before travelling Down Under. On his arrival, Djokovic was taken aback with his exemption being tarnished and his visa getting cancelled. As a result, he was sent to a detention center, i.e. an immigration hotel in Melbourne, for four days before his lawyers managed to free him as Australian Judge Anthony Kelly ordered his release, on January 10, with immediate effect. ALSO READ | Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga Djokovic's Aus Open saga didn't die down there itself. As the Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke comprises discretionary personal powers to revoke anyone's visa on various grounds, he did the same for the Serbian on Friday (January 14). "Today I exercised my power... to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so," the Immigration Minister said in a statement. On the other hand, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that the decision followed "careful consideration". Amid all this, the 34-year-old Djokovic admitted to have breached Covid protocols as he went ahead with an interview to a French-newspaper L'equipe's journalist despite a positive report with regard to the infection in December, 2021. In addition, Djokovic shifted the blame on his agent for incorrectly filling details in his travel form on arrival Down Under (he also acknowledged that his travel declaration form contained falsehoods about his whereabouts the 14 days preceding his flight to Australia). Thus, Djokovic has dug his own grave in many ways ahead of the Aus Open. As the entire saga continues to get complicated with each passing day, with the star player set to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on January 15 (Saturday), here's reliving some big controversies surrounding the Serbian: 1)Hitting female line judge During the 2020 US Open, Djokovic was disqualified after hitting a female line judge in frustration during his fourth-round match versus Spain's Pablo Busta. The Serbian did so after a fall and dropping a serve to trail 5-6. While it wasn't intentional, Djokovic's fate was sealed under the Grand Slam rules. After the incident, Djokovic had said in a statement, "This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the linesperson and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling OK. I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong." ALSO READ | Australian Open draw shaken up with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's visa cancellation 2) The infamous Covid tour Amit the pandemic, in 2020, Djokovic has organised an Adrian tour, i.e. a series of exhibition games in Balkans with professional tennis entirely shut down. However, the tournament was abandoned due to Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov testing positive. As a result, Djokovic, his wife and many other players also tested positive. The players were heavily criticised for embaring a nightclub and partying during the pandemic. 3) 'Djokovic is a tool' During the 2021 Aus Open, Djokovic arrived in Melbourne and again landed himself in controversy by demanding that tennis players should be given private homes along with tennis courts. To this, Aussie player Nick Krygios tweeted in response by saying, "Djokovic is a tool." 4) Exaggerating injuries and taking medical breaks Djokovic has been accused of taking unnecessary medical breaks and exaggerating injuries whenever the going gets tough for him during a game. In 2008 US Open, he took two medical timeouts during his five-set thrilling win over Tommy Robredo, upsetting the Spaniard. On the other hand, Djokovic didn't hesitate in breaking the flow of the game once again during his 2020 French Open quarter-final clash versus Carreon Busta. Back then, Busta had stated, "Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance." Thus, Djokovic isn't alien to controversies. He, however, is currently going through his biggest battle off the court and dominating the headlines for all the wrong reasons; acting as a buzzkill for many tennis loyalists worldwide prior to the Aus Open.

Novak Djokovic: Serbia's pride and controversy's favourite child

NorthEast United FC played out a 1-1 draw with FC Goa in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) at the Athletic Stadium, here on Friday. 
 
Hernan Santana`s delightful free-kick in the second minute of the game failed to hand NorthEast United FC a win as Airan Cabrera`s goal in the 39th minute helped Goa to draw the match. 
 
There were no goals in the second half, meaning Goa moved up a rung to eighth place with 13 points from 11 games while NorthEast United remained 10th with nine points from 11 games. 
 
NorthEast United were off to a flying start courtesy of Santana`s individual brilliance. The 31-year-old Spaniard curled in a delectable free-kick at the near post, leaving Dheeraj Moirangthem with no chance as the ball pinged in off the crossbar. 
 
It was a frantic start to the game and just the early push NorthEast United needed. Goa tried to settle down by playing more passes in midfield but NorthEast were not ready to rest on the slender lead as Deshorn Brown missed the target after beating two defenders. 
 
Goa relied on the excellent Jorge Ortiz to deliver the goods and the Spaniard got past Provat Lakra to send a teasing ball inside the box but Mirshad Michu was alert to avert the danger at the right time. NorthEast looked in fine touch when Brown and Suhair Vadakkepeedika combined for the latter to see his effort deflect off a few Goa shirts for a corner. 
 
In the second period, Goa looked the more threatening side with Ortiz and Cabrera combining brilliantly to keep NorthEast United defence on tenterhooks. There were chances few and far between for the Highlanders but Goa could not make the most of their attacking display as they had to share the spoils in the end with their rivals.

NorthEast United FC played out a 1-1 draw with FC Goa in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) at the Athletic Stadium, here on Friday. Hernan Santana`s delightful free-kick in the second minute of the game failed to hand NorthEast United FC a win as Airan Cabrera`s goal in the 39th minute helped Goa to draw the match.

NorthEast United FC played out a 1-1 draw with FC Goa in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) at the Athletic Stadium, here on Friday. Hernan Santana`s delightful free-kick in the second minute of the game failed to hand NorthEast United FC a win as Airan Cabrera`s goal in the 39th minute helped Goa to draw the match. There were no goals in the second half, meaning Goa moved up a rung to eighth place with 13 points from 11 games while NorthEast United remained 10th with nine points from 11 games. NorthEast United were off to a flying start courtesy of Santana`s individual brilliance. The 31-year-old Spaniard curled in a delectable free-kick at the near post, leaving Dheeraj Moirangthem with no chance as the ball pinged in off the crossbar. It was a frantic start to the game and just the early push NorthEast United needed. Goa tried to settle down by playing more passes in midfield but NorthEast were not ready to rest on the slender lead as Deshorn Brown missed the target after beating two defenders. Goa relied on the excellent Jorge Ortiz to deliver the goods and the Spaniard got past Provat Lakra to send a teasing ball inside the box but Mirshad Michu was alert to avert the danger at the right time. NorthEast looked in fine touch when Brown and Suhair Vadakkepeedika combined for the latter to see his effort deflect off a few Goa shirts for a corner. In the second period, Goa looked the more threatening side with Ortiz and Cabrera combining brilliantly to keep NorthEast United defence on tenterhooks. There were chances few and far between for the Highlanders but Goa could not make the most of their attacking display as they had to share the spoils in the end with their rivals.

ISL 2021-22: Goa FC hold NorthEast United 1-1 in riveting contest

Lionel Messi will miss another game for Paris Saint-Germain after acknowledging that his recovery from COVID-19 has been slower than expected.

The Argentina forward won't be available for Saturday's game against Brest at Parc des Princes, PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said Friday.

The 34-year-old Messi missed PSG's 1-1 draw at Lyon last Sunday when the French league returned from its winter break. Messi had become infected while home in Argentina. He later tested negative and returned to Paris.

Messi said in a social media post on Thursday that "it has taken me more time than I had expected to get better" but that he's "almost recovered" and eager to get back on the field.

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"I have been training these days to get back to 100%," he wrote on Instagram. 
"There are some very exciting challenges ahead this year and I hope that we can all see one another again very soon."

Pochettino said Messi remains under the supervision of the team's medical staff. The club said Friday that Messi "will gradually rejoin the squad next week."

After this weekend, league-leader PSG hosts Reims on Jan. 23 before the international break. 
Neymar remains out because of an ankle injury he picked up in late November and wasn't included in the Brazil squad announced Thursday for World Cup qualifying.

Argentina and Brazil have already qualified for the World Cup.

Lionel Messi will miss another game for Paris Saint-Germain after acknowledging that his recovery from COVID-19 has been slower than expected. The Argentina forward won't be available for Saturday's game against Brest at Parc des Princes, PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said Friday.

Lionel Messi will miss another game for Paris Saint-Germain after acknowledging that his recovery from COVID-19 has been slower than expected. The Argentina forward won't be available for Saturday's game against Brest at Parc des Princes, PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino said Friday. The 34-year-old Messi missed PSG's 1-1 draw at Lyon last Sunday when the French league returned from its winter break. Messi had become infected while home in Argentina. He later tested negative and returned to Paris. Messi said in a social media post on Thursday that "it has taken me more time than I had expected to get better" but that he's "almost recovered" and eager to get back on the field. Read Also | Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola confirms new COVID-19 cases ahead of Chelsea game "I have been training these days to get back to 100%," he wrote on Instagram. "There are some very exciting challenges ahead this year and I hope that we can all see one another again very soon." Pochettino said Messi remains under the supervision of the team's medical staff. The club said Friday that Messi "will gradually rejoin the squad next week." After this weekend, league-leader PSG hosts Reims on Jan. 23 before the international break. Neymar remains out because of an ankle injury he picked up in late November and wasn't included in the Brazil squad announced Thursday for World Cup qualifying. Argentina and Brazil have already qualified for the World Cup.

Lionel Messi set to miss another game for PSG due to slow recovery from Covid-19 infection

Unvaccinated tennis star Novak Djokovic won the right to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on Saturday after the government cancelled his visa for the second time over COVID-19 entry regulations.

The government undertook not to deport him until the case was over, although the world`s number one player was nevertheless ordered to return to pre-deportation detention at 8 a.m. (2100 GMT Friday).

His legal team submitted their appeal late at night - less than three hours after Immigration Minister Alex Hawke used discretionary powers to revoke the visa - in the hope that he can still begin the defence of his Australian Open title on Monday. 
They said they would argue that Djokovic`s deportation could be just as much of a threat to public health, by fanning anti-vaccine sentiment, as letting him stay and exempting him from Australia`s requirement that all visitors must be vaccinated.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/australian-open-naomi-osaka-and-a-host-of-others-look-to-disrupt-ashleigh-bartys-home-party-444833">Australian Open: Naomi Osaka and a host of others look to disrupt Ashleigh Barty's home party</a>

While Prime Minister Scott Morrison`s government has won support at home for its tough stance on border security during the pandemic, it has not escaped criticism for the seemingly inconsistent handling of Djokovic`s visa application. 
The 34-year-old Serbian, bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam title, had been told on arrival on Jan. 5 that the medical exemption that enabled him to travel was invalid.

He spent several days in immigration detention, in a hotel also used for asylum-seekers, before that decision was revoked on procedural grounds. 
Hawke said on Friday that he had now exercised his prerogative to cancel the visa "on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so". 
&nbsp;

`PROTECTING BORDERS`

He said he had considered information from Djokovic and the authorities, and that the government was "firmly committed to protecting Australia`s borders, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic". 
Judge Anthony Kelly, who revoked the first cancellation, said the government had agreed not to deport Djokovic before the case concluded, and that the player could leave detention to meet his lawyers and attend hearings.

Although Djokovic has publicly opposed compulsory vaccination, he has not campaigned against vaccination in general. 
The controversy has nonetheless intensified a global debate over the rights of the unvaccinated, and become a tricky political issue for Morrison as he prepares for an election due by May. 
"Australians have made many sacrifices during this pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected," Morrison said in a statement.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/not-kicking-him-whilst-hes-down-says-andy-murray-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-saga-444770">&nbsp;Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga</a>

"This is what the minister is doing in taking this action today. Our strong border protection policies have kept Australians safe." 
Australia has endured some of the world`s longest lockdowns, and has seen a runaway Omicron outbreak bring nearly a million cases in the last two weeks. 
More than 90% of Australian adults are vaccinated, and an online poll by the News Corp media group found that 83% favoured deportation for Djokovic.

His cause was not helped by an incorrect entry declaration, where a box was ticked stating he had not travelled abroad in the two weeks before leaving for Australia. In fact, he had travelled between Spain and Serbia. 
Djokovic blamed the error on his agent and acknowledged he also should not have done an interview and photoshoot for a French newspaper on Dec. 18 while infected with COVID-19. 
The player has, however, been hailed as a hero by anti-vaccination campaigners, and last September more than 200 people were arrested during sometimes violent protests in Melbourne against a lockdown imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19.

`PATENTLY IRRATIONAL`

Djokovic`s legal team said the government was arguing that letting him stay in Australia would incite others to refuse vaccination. 
One of his lawyers told the court that this was "patently irrational" because Hawke was ignoring the effect that forcibly removing "this high profile, legally compliant, negligible risk, medical contradicted player" might have on anti-vax sentiment and on public order. 
Djokovic had looked relaxed as he practised serves and returns with his entourage on an empty court at Melbourne Park on Friday, occasionally resting to wipe sweat from his face.

He was included in the draw as top seed and due to face fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanovic on Monday. 
Greek world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas, speaking before Hawke`s decision, said Djokovic was "playing by his own rules" and making vaccinated players "look like fools".

In Belgrade, some already appeared resigned to Djokovic missing the tournament. 
"He is a role model to all of us, but rules must clearly be set," Milan Majstorovic told Reuters TV. "I am unsure how big the involvement of the politics is in that." 
Another passer-by, Ana Bojic, said: "He can either vaccinate to remain world number one - or he can be stubborn and end his career."

Unvaccinated tennis star Novak Djokovic won the right to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on Saturday after the government cancelled his visa for the second time over COVID-19 entry regulations.

Unvaccinated tennis star Novak Djokovic won the right to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on Saturday after the government cancelled his visa for the second time over COVID-19 entry regulations. The government undertook not to deport him until the case was over, although the world`s number one player was nevertheless ordered to return to pre-deportation detention at 8 a.m. (2100 GMT Friday). His legal team submitted their appeal late at night - less than three hours after Immigration Minister Alex Hawke used discretionary powers to revoke the visa - in the hope that he can still begin the defence of his Australian Open title on Monday. They said they would argue that Djokovic`s deportation could be just as much of a threat to public health, by fanning anti-vaccine sentiment, as letting him stay and exempting him from Australia`s requirement that all visitors must be vaccinated. Read Also | Australian Open: Naomi Osaka and a host of others look to disrupt Ashleigh Barty's home party While Prime Minister Scott Morrison`s government has won support at home for its tough stance on border security during the pandemic, it has not escaped criticism for the seemingly inconsistent handling of Djokovic`s visa application. The 34-year-old Serbian, bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam title, had been told on arrival on Jan. 5 that the medical exemption that enabled him to travel was invalid. He spent several days in immigration detention, in a hotel also used for asylum-seekers, before that decision was revoked on procedural grounds. Hawke said on Friday that he had now exercised his prerogative to cancel the visa "on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so". `PROTECTING BORDERS` He said he had considered information from Djokovic and the authorities, and that the government was "firmly committed to protecting Australia`s borders, particularly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic". Judge Anthony Kelly, who revoked the first cancellation, said the government had agreed not to deport Djokovic before the case concluded, and that the player could leave detention to meet his lawyers and attend hearings. Although Djokovic has publicly opposed compulsory vaccination, he has not campaigned against vaccination in general. The controversy has nonetheless intensified a global debate over the rights of the unvaccinated, and become a tricky political issue for Morrison as he prepares for an election due by May. "Australians have made many sacrifices during this pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected," Morrison said in a statement. Read Also | Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga "This is what the minister is doing in taking this action today. Our strong border protection policies have kept Australians safe." Australia has endured some of the world`s longest lockdowns, and has seen a runaway Omicron outbreak bring nearly a million cases in the last two weeks. More than 90% of Australian adults are vaccinated, and an online poll by the News Corp media group found that 83% favoured deportation for Djokovic. His cause was not helped by an incorrect entry declaration, where a box was ticked stating he had not travelled abroad in the two weeks before leaving for Australia. In fact, he had travelled between Spain and Serbia. Djokovic blamed the error on his agent and acknowledged he also should not have done an interview and photoshoot for a French newspaper on Dec. 18 while infected with COVID-19. The player has, however, been hailed as a hero by anti-vaccination campaigners, and last September more than 200 people were arrested during sometimes violent protests in Melbourne against a lockdown imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19. `PATENTLY IRRATIONAL` Djokovic`s legal team said the government was arguing that letting him stay in Australia would incite others to refuse vaccination. One of his lawyers told the court that this was "patently irrational" because Hawke was ignoring the effect that forcibly removing "this high profile, legally compliant, negligible risk, medical contradicted player" might have on anti-vax sentiment and on public order. Djokovic had looked relaxed as he practised serves and returns with his entourage on an empty court at Melbourne Park on Friday, occasionally resting to wipe sweat from his face. He was included in the draw as top seed and due to face fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanovic on Monday. Greek world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas, speaking before Hawke`s decision, said Djokovic was "playing by his own rules" and making vaccinated players "look like fools". In Belgrade, some already appeared resigned to Djokovic missing the tournament. "He is a role model to all of us, but rules must clearly be set," Milan Majstorovic told Reuters TV. "I am unsure how big the involvement of the politics is in that." Another passer-by, Ana Bojic, said: "He can either vaccinate to remain world number one - or he can be stubborn and end his career."

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic appeal to be heard on Saturday as Australia cancels Serbian's visa again

India and South Africa played out an intense and riveting three-match Test series, in the rainbow nation, which ended on Friday (January 14) with Dean Elgar-led hosts clinching the series over Virat Kohli's India by 2-1. Day 4 of the third and final Test commenced, on Friday, with Proteas needing 111 more runs to win -- in pursuit of 212 -- whereas India needed 8 more wickets.

Keegan Petersen's 82 and Rassie van der Dussen-Temba Bavuma's unbeaten knocks propelled the South African side to a seven-wicket win at Newlands, Cape Town as the hosts won the series 2-1. Day 3 of the final Test saw a huge controversy when the Indian players were left agitated over Elgar's DRS decision.

During SA's run-chase towards Day 3's end overs, Elgar survived a very close lbw call off R Ashwin's bowling. While he was given out initially by Marais Erasmus, the on-field umpire, the SA captain took the decision upstairs. The replays suggested that the red cherry had hit the batter below the knee whereas&nbsp;the hawk-eye showed that the ball was going over the stumps. Hence, Elgar was given not out; with Kohli, KL Rahul and R Ashwin not mincing their words and targetting the host broadcaster SuperSport on the stump-mic.&nbsp;

Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opens-up-on-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahanes-future-after-flop-show-in-sa-test-series-444795">Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series</a>

Speaking to the press on the DRS controversy after the end of the series, Kohli decided against making any further comment on the matter.&nbsp;"I have no comment to make. I understood what happened on the field and people on the outside don't know exactly what goes on the field. So me to try and justify what we did on the field and say 'we got carried away'.... If we would have charged up and picked up three wickets there that could have been probably the moment that could change the game," Kohli was quoted as saying by ANI during the post-match press conference in Cape Town.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-should-be-fined-or-suspended-michael-vaughan-lashes-out-at-team-india-over-drs-rant-444737">Virat Kohli should be fined or suspended: Michael Vaughan lashes out at Team India over DRS rant</a>

As per reports, Kohli-led Indian team management have received an informal warning from the officials following their comments on the stump-mic.&nbsp;

Talking about the SA tour, Team India will now shift their focus to the three-match ODI series, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl.

India and South Africa played out an intense and riveting three-match Test series, in the rainbow nation, which ended on Friday (January 14) with Dean Elgar-led hosts clinching the series over Virat Kohli's India by 2-1.

India and South Africa played out an intense and riveting three-match Test series, in the rainbow nation, which ended on Friday (January 14) with Dean Elgar-led hosts clinching the series over Virat Kohli's India by 2-1. Day 4 of the third and final Test commenced, on Friday, with Proteas needing 111 more runs to win -- in pursuit of 212 -- whereas India needed 8 more wickets. Keegan Petersen's 82 and Rassie van der Dussen-Temba Bavuma's unbeaten knocks propelled the South African side to a seven-wicket win at Newlands, Cape Town as the hosts won the series 2-1. Day 3 of the final Test saw a huge controversy when the Indian players were left agitated over Elgar's DRS decision. During SA's run-chase towards Day 3's end overs, Elgar survived a very close lbw call off R Ashwin's bowling. While he was given out initially by Marais Erasmus, the on-field umpire, the SA captain took the decision upstairs. The replays suggested that the red cherry had hit the batter below the knee whereas the hawk-eye showed that the ball was going over the stumps. Hence, Elgar was given not out; with Kohli, KL Rahul and R Ashwin not mincing their words and targetting the host broadcaster SuperSport on the stump-mic. Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series Speaking to the press on the DRS controversy after the end of the series, Kohli decided against making any further comment on the matter. "I have no comment to make. I understood what happened on the field and people on the outside don't know exactly what goes on the field. So me to try and justify what we did on the field and say 'we got carried away'.... If we would have charged up and picked up three wickets there that could have been probably the moment that could change the game," Kohli was quoted as saying by ANI during the post-match press conference in Cape Town. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli should be fined or suspended: Michael Vaughan lashes out at Team India over DRS rant As per reports, Kohli-led Indian team management have received an informal warning from the officials following their comments on the stump-mic. Talking about the SA tour, Team India will now shift their focus to the three-match ODI series, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli opens up on Dean Elgar DRS controversy during Day 3 of Cape Town Test

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Guardiola, who missed Friday`s 4-1 FA Cup third round victory over Swindon Town after returning a positive test, did not specify whether the new cases were among players or members of staff while the number of cases was also not mentioned.

Last Thursday, City confirmed Guardiola and his assistant Juanma Lillo were among seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff who were isolating for COVID-19 related reasons.

"We have some new cases, they want privacy so I can`t say," Guardiola told reporters on Friday, adding some players who missed the Swindon game will remain unavailable after continuing to return positive tests.

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"We played Aston Villa with 11 first team players. The last six, seven games there are four or five academy players on the bench. We are in the same situation as all other clubs.

"Before we tried to plan the next few days but what we`ve learned is to take it day by day, take decisions a few hours before a training session or game because we can be okay and then in four or five hours we have positive cases."

Guardiola, set to return to the dugout on Saturday, heaped praise on his counterpart Thomas Tuchel and his team before City host Chelsea and added he is expecting a completely different game to the one City won 1-0 earlier this season.

"So creative. One of the few managers I learn constantly from, to become a better manager myself," Guardiola said of Tuchel.

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"Excellent in all departments. Always I enjoy watching his teams and the approach. He makes world football better..

"Tomorrow we face the European champions, an excellent team... The performance (in September) was really good, we minimised the champions of Europe when they had all players fit.

"At that moment we were below them, we knew the difficulty. We won unfortunately with a short margin... we learn from that, we can be better especially in attack. Tomorrow will be completely different."

Chelsea are 10 points adrift of champions City after 21 games before the two teams meet at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday. Guardiola, who missed Friday`s 4-1 FA Cup third round victory over Swindon Town after returning a positive test, did not specify whether the new cases were among players or members of staff while the number of cases was also not mentioned. Last Thursday, City confirmed Guardiola and his assistant Juanma Lillo were among seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff who were isolating for COVID-19 related reasons. "We have some new cases, they want privacy so I can`t say," Guardiola told reporters on Friday, adding some players who missed the Swindon game will remain unavailable after continuing to return positive tests. Read Also | Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal tests Covid positive in Saudi Arabia "We played Aston Villa with 11 first team players. The last six, seven games there are four or five academy players on the bench. We are in the same situation as all other clubs. "Before we tried to plan the next few days but what we`ve learned is to take it day by day, take decisions a few hours before a training session or game because we can be okay and then in four or five hours we have positive cases." Guardiola, set to return to the dugout on Saturday, heaped praise on his counterpart Thomas Tuchel and his team before City host Chelsea and added he is expecting a completely different game to the one City won 1-0 earlier this season. "So creative. One of the few managers I learn constantly from, to become a better manager myself," Guardiola said of Tuchel. Read Also | Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate "Excellent in all departments. Always I enjoy watching his teams and the approach. He makes world football better.. "Tomorrow we face the European champions, an excellent team... The performance (in September) was really good, we minimised the champions of Europe when they had all players fit. "At that moment we were below them, we knew the difficulty. We won unfortunately with a short margin... we learn from that, we can be better especially in attack. Tomorrow will be completely different." Chelsea are 10 points adrift of champions City after 21 games before the two teams meet at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola confirms new COVID-19 cases ahead of Chelsea game

Ash Barty is in prime position to end Australia`s lengthy wait for a home winner at this year`s Australian Open but defending champion Naomi Osaka and a host of others will be out to spoil the party for the women`s world number one.

No Australian has won the Melbourne Park major since Chris O`Neill in 1978 and the 25-year-old Queenslander will be desperate to add the hardcourt title to her French Open win on clay and Wimbledon success on grass.

Barty, the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong-Cawley to reach the world number one ranking, is pleased with her preparation after winning last week`s Adelaide International -- the 14th WTA title of her career.

"I feel good leading up to an Australian Open like I have every year," Barty said after her Adelaide triumph.

"The work that I do with my team behind the scenes puts me in the best possible position to play good tennis time and time again each and every time we`re asked."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/not-kicking-him-whilst-hes-down-says-andy-murray-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-saga-444770">Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga</a>

Barty, who will open her campaign against Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko, is bookmakers` favourite to lift the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup at the end of the month.

"I think she`s got a huge chance to win here," ESPN analyst and former world number three Pam Shriver said. "I think there`s a pretty good chance she`s playing the best tennis and I love the way she`s serving." The field, however, is stacked with major champions.

Other than Osaka, who won all her four majors on hardcourts, the women`s field at the Australian Open also features several other Grand Slam winners including the latest, U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu. Japan`s former world number one Osaka has won two of her Slams at Melbourne Park and she is a potential fourth-round opponent for Barty.

While Barty has found the calmness and mental steel to handle the burden of expectation, Osaka has struggled with mental health issues, disclosing last year that she has long suffered from bouts of depression.

ABDOMINAL INJURY

The 24-year-old Osaka appeared in good form in a tune-up WTA event in Melbourne last week before pulling out of her semi-final with an abdominal injury.

"She obviously prefers hard courts tenfold," said Brad Gilbert, a former world number four and coach to Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick among others.

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"The stomach issue for a tennis player can be of big concern because there`s not one shot, potentially if she has tweaked it, that you can fudge around having an abdominal injury."

This year`s Australian Open will be the first since 1997 that will not feature either of the Williams sisters. 
Serena is still recovering from a hamstring injury, while older sister Venus also pulled out.

Former world number one Karolina Pliskova, 2019 U.S. Open winner Bianca Andreescu and last year`s finalist Jennifer Brady have also pulled out with injuries.

While the withdrawals will take some sheen off the year`s opening major, a depth of talent remains in the women`s competition. Belinda Bencic will want to add Grand Slam success to her Olympic gold from Tokyo while twice major winner Garbine Muguruza of Spain will hope to continue her strong form from the end of the season when she triumphed in the WTA Finals in Mexico.

Few will also doubt the talent of 19-year-old Briton Raducanu but she has looked out of sorts since becoming the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam when she triumphed at Flushing Meadows last September.

World number two Aryna Sabalenka is known for her power-packed game but has failed to find her mark in her Australian Open preparations - falling in her first match in both events in the lead-up.

Ash Barty is in prime position to end Australia`s lengthy wait for a home winner at this year`s Australian Open but defending champion Naomi Osaka and a host of others will be out to spoil the party for the women`s world number one.

Ash Barty is in prime position to end Australia`s lengthy wait for a home winner at this year`s Australian Open but defending champion Naomi Osaka and a host of others will be out to spoil the party for the women`s world number one. No Australian has won the Melbourne Park major since Chris O`Neill in 1978 and the 25-year-old Queenslander will be desperate to add the hardcourt title to her French Open win on clay and Wimbledon success on grass. Barty, the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong-Cawley to reach the world number one ranking, is pleased with her preparation after winning last week`s Adelaide International -- the 14th WTA title of her career. "I feel good leading up to an Australian Open like I have every year," Barty said after her Adelaide triumph. "The work that I do with my team behind the scenes puts me in the best possible position to play good tennis time and time again each and every time we`re asked." Read Also | Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga Barty, who will open her campaign against Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko, is bookmakers` favourite to lift the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup at the end of the month. "I think she`s got a huge chance to win here," ESPN analyst and former world number three Pam Shriver said. "I think there`s a pretty good chance she`s playing the best tennis and I love the way she`s serving." The field, however, is stacked with major champions. Other than Osaka, who won all her four majors on hardcourts, the women`s field at the Australian Open also features several other Grand Slam winners including the latest, U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu. Japan`s former world number one Osaka has won two of her Slams at Melbourne Park and she is a potential fourth-round opponent for Barty. While Barty has found the calmness and mental steel to handle the burden of expectation, Osaka has struggled with mental health issues, disclosing last year that she has long suffered from bouts of depression. ABDOMINAL INJURY The 24-year-old Osaka appeared in good form in a tune-up WTA event in Melbourne last week before pulling out of her semi-final with an abdominal injury. "She obviously prefers hard courts tenfold," said Brad Gilbert, a former world number four and coach to Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick among others. Read Also | Novak Djokovic won't be deported from Australia on Friday, says Immigration Minister Alex Hawke "The stomach issue for a tennis player can be of big concern because there`s not one shot, potentially if she has tweaked it, that you can fudge around having an abdominal injury." This year`s Australian Open will be the first since 1997 that will not feature either of the Williams sisters. Serena is still recovering from a hamstring injury, while older sister Venus also pulled out. Former world number one Karolina Pliskova, 2019 U.S. Open winner Bianca Andreescu and last year`s finalist Jennifer Brady have also pulled out with injuries. While the withdrawals will take some sheen off the year`s opening major, a depth of talent remains in the women`s competition. Belinda Bencic will want to add Grand Slam success to her Olympic gold from Tokyo while twice major winner Garbine Muguruza of Spain will hope to continue her strong form from the end of the season when she triumphed in the WTA Finals in Mexico. Few will also doubt the talent of 19-year-old Briton Raducanu but she has looked out of sorts since becoming the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam when she triumphed at Flushing Meadows last September. World number two Aryna Sabalenka is known for her power-packed game but has failed to find her mark in her Australian Open preparations - falling in her first match in both events in the lead-up.

Australian Open: Naomi Osaka and a host of others look to disrupt Ashleigh Barty's home party

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