U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was crushed 6-0 6-1 by in-form ninth seed Elena Rybakina at the Sydney Tennis Classic on Tuesday. Briton Raducanu, playing her first match this season, was comprehensively outplayed in the opening set as her Kazakh opponent took advantage of her unsteady serve, which included four double faults. 
Rybakina, runner-up to world number one Ash Barty in the Adelaide International on Sunday, kept up the intensity in the second set and clinched the win in just under an hour.

Raducanu was consistently troubled by Rybakina`s deep returns, allowing the 19-year-old little time to settle and leading to a slew of unforced errors. The loss was a blow to Raducanu`s preparations for the Jan. 17-30 Australian Open, having withdrawn from the warm-up event in Melbourne last week following a positive test for COVID-19. 
Fellow Briton Andy Murray had an easier time against Norwegian qualifier Viktor Durasovic, cruising to a 6-3 6-1 win in the ATP 250 tournament at the same venue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/embarrassed-as-a-victorian-shane-warne-baffled-as-he-reacts-to-novak-djokovics-aus-open-saga-443879">Embarrassed as a Victorian: Shane Warne baffled as he reacts to Novak Djokovic's Aus Open saga</a>

The three-times Grand Slam champion suffered defeat in his first match of the season in Melbourne but looked in fine touch against Durasovic, who was forced into a number of errors by the Murray backhand. 
"It is perfect conditions here... I was hoping to get matches in Melbourne last week, but that didn`t happen. Thankfully the tournament organisers and Tennis Australia agreed to give me a wild card here," said Murray.

Earlier, Olympic champion Belinda Bencic made a solid start to 2022 with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Brazil`s Beatriz Haddad Maia to reach the second round and local favourite Ajla Tomljanovic also advanced.

Swiss Bencic, who heads into the Australian Open bidding to add a maiden Grand Slam singles title to her Tokyo Games gold, broke Haddad Maia three times on Ken Rosewall Arena. World number 45 Tomljanovic beat Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-2 6-3 to set up a second-round match with Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa. 
Elsewhere, Argentine Federico Delbonis was beaten by lucky loser Denis Kudla of the United States 6-3 6-1 while Brandon Nakashima beat Czech qualifier Jiri Vesely 7-6(2) 7-6(0).

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was crushed 6-0 6-1 by in-form ninth seed Elena Rybakina at the Sydney Tennis Classic on Tuesday. Briton Raducanu, playing her first match this season, was comprehensively outplayed in the opening set as her Kazakh opponent took advantage of her unsteady serve, which included four double faults.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was crushed 6-0 6-1 by in-form ninth seed Elena Rybakina at the Sydney Tennis Classic on Tuesday. Briton Raducanu, playing her first match this season, was comprehensively outplayed in the opening set as her Kazakh opponent took advantage of her unsteady serve, which included four double faults. Rybakina, runner-up to world number one Ash Barty in the Adelaide International on Sunday, kept up the intensity in the second set and clinched the win in just under an hour. Raducanu was consistently troubled by Rybakina`s deep returns, allowing the 19-year-old little time to settle and leading to a slew of unforced errors. The loss was a blow to Raducanu`s preparations for the Jan. 17-30 Australian Open, having withdrawn from the warm-up event in Melbourne last week following a positive test for COVID-19. Fellow Briton Andy Murray had an easier time against Norwegian qualifier Viktor Durasovic, cruising to a 6-3 6-1 win in the ATP 250 tournament at the same venue. ALSO READ | Embarrassed as a Victorian: Shane Warne baffled as he reacts to Novak Djokovic's Aus Open saga The three-times Grand Slam champion suffered defeat in his first match of the season in Melbourne but looked in fine touch against Durasovic, who was forced into a number of errors by the Murray backhand. "It is perfect conditions here... I was hoping to get matches in Melbourne last week, but that didn`t happen. Thankfully the tournament organisers and Tennis Australia agreed to give me a wild card here," said Murray. Earlier, Olympic champion Belinda Bencic made a solid start to 2022 with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Brazil`s Beatriz Haddad Maia to reach the second round and local favourite Ajla Tomljanovic also advanced. Swiss Bencic, who heads into the Australian Open bidding to add a maiden Grand Slam singles title to her Tokyo Games gold, broke Haddad Maia three times on Ken Rosewall Arena. World number 45 Tomljanovic beat Slovak Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-2 6-3 to set up a second-round match with Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa. Elsewhere, Argentine Federico Delbonis was beaten by lucky loser Denis Kudla of the United States 6-3 6-1 while Brandon Nakashima beat Czech qualifier Jiri Vesely 7-6(2) 7-6(0).

Teen superstar Emma Raducanu suffers crushing defeat vs Elena Rybakina in Sydney opener

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne.

The top-ranked tennis star left his immigration hotel immediately after the court hearing. For the unversed, he was detained after his visa was cancelled on arrival in Melbourne for the Australian Open 2022. He had an exemption from the Victorian government for Covid vaccination, however, it was deemed unsatisfactory after which he was in detention.

It is still unclear whether Djokovic will participate in the year's first-ever Grand Slam, i.e. the Aus Open, and if the government will continue legal proceedings against him. Australia's immigration minister and govt lawyer is now considering re-cancelling Djokovic's visa under the country's immigration laws, which gives him immense power to cancel visas under any condition. If this happens, Djokovic will be banned from entering the country for three long years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biggest-victory-in-his-career-bigger-than-all-grand-slams-says-djokovics-family-after-courts-decision-443687">Biggest victory in his career, bigger than all Grand Slams, says Djokovic's family after court's decision</a>

Sheding light on the whole matter post the court hearing, Scott Spits -- the sports reporter from Australia's Daily The Age -- told WION, "The situation is truly damaging. The Australian govt doesn't look good whoever is watching story from abroad. &nbsp;There might&nbsp;be another steps as being mentioned in the government report to reinforce the visa cancellation. But the situation is really very damaging for the Australian government."

He added, "It will come down to how strong the federal government&nbsp;believes they should maintain the decision of cancelling his visa.&nbsp;Djokovic would have gone with some public support given what he's really gone through. Look this is election due this year so&nbsp;they need to work out how strongly they want to&nbsp;push the case."

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"The judge today overturned the government decision essentially what was perhaps considered technicality. That's why immigration minister might take the additional step to try and&nbsp;cancel the visa again. It is possible," he signed off.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pleased-and-grateful-novak-djokovic-tweets-after-his-visa-cancellation-is-revoked-ahead-of-australian-open-443666">'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open</a>

Djokovic has, meanwhile, commenced his training for the forthcoming Aus Open as soon as he was released from the immigration hotel. However, there is no confirmation whether he will be able to participate and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title. As of now, Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are all tied at 20 grand slam titles each.

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne.

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne. The top-ranked tennis star left his immigration hotel immediately after the court hearing. For the unversed, he was detained after his visa was cancelled on arrival in Melbourne for the Australian Open 2022. He had an exemption from the Victorian government for Covid vaccination, however, it was deemed unsatisfactory after which he was in detention. It is still unclear whether Djokovic will participate in the year's first-ever Grand Slam, i.e. the Aus Open, and if the government will continue legal proceedings against him. Australia's immigration minister and govt lawyer is now considering re-cancelling Djokovic's visa under the country's immigration laws, which gives him immense power to cancel visas under any condition. If this happens, Djokovic will be banned from entering the country for three long years. ALSO READ | Biggest victory in his career, bigger than all Grand Slams, says Djokovic's family after court's decision Sheding light on the whole matter post the court hearing, Scott Spits -- the sports reporter from Australia's Daily The Age -- told WION, "The situation is truly damaging. The Australian govt doesn't look good whoever is watching story from abroad. There might be another steps as being mentioned in the government report to reinforce the visa cancellation. But the situation is really very damaging for the Australian government." He added, "It will come down to how strong the federal government believes they should maintain the decision of cancelling his visa. Djokovic would have gone with some public support given what he's really gone through. Look this is election due this year so they need to work out how strongly they want to push the case." × "The judge today overturned the government decision essentially what was perhaps considered technicality. That's why immigration minister might take the additional step to try and cancel the visa again. It is possible," he signed off. ALSO READ | 'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open Djokovic has, meanwhile, commenced his training for the forthcoming Aus Open as soon as he was released from the immigration hotel. However, there is no confirmation whether he will be able to participate and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title. As of now, Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are all tied at 20 grand slam titles each.

Situation truly damaging: Melbourne-based journalist on Djokovic's Aus Open saga post court hearing

Novak Djokovic, on Monday (January 10), was granted the permission to be out of detention after winning a court case in Australia against the cancellation of his visa by the authorities in the country. Last week, the World number one player had landed in Australia with an exemption for Covid vaccination -- from the Victorian government -- however, his visa wasn't clear and exemption grounds were deemed to be unsatisfactory by the authorities at the airport. From thereon, the 34-year-old Serbian was kept in an immigration centre.

Post the decision on Monday,&nbsp;Djokovic has been out of detention&nbsp;but deportation threat still looms large. However, his family members have rejoiced and are on cloud nine post the superstar tennis player's victory over the Australian government.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pleased-and-grateful-novak-djokovic-tweets-after-his-visa-cancellation-is-revoked-ahead-of-australian-open-443666">'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open</a>

"Novak is free. A little while ago he was training on the court. He went to Australia to play tennis, to play another Australian Open and set another record," his brother Djordje said during a press conference in the Serbian capital Belgrade.

"Truth and justice came to the light. I would like to thank the justice system of Australia," Djordje added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-reacts-as-australian-judge-orders-djokovics-release-from-detention-ahead-of-aus-open-443584">Rafael Nadal reacts as Australian judge orders Djokovic's release from detention ahead of Aus Open</a>

"This is the biggest victory in his career, bigger than all his grand slams," said his mother Dijana Djokovic during a press conference in the Serbian capital Belgrade.

Djokovic himself tweeted post his release as he has commenced training for the forthcoming Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, in Melbourne. He tweeted saying, "I'm pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen," Djokovic said in a tweet while sharing a picture of himself with his team.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened,I want to stay and try to compete <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> 
I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. 👇 <a href="https://t.co/iJVbMfQ037">pic.twitter.com/iJVbMfQ037</a>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1480529173789696001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. For now I cannot say more but THANK YOU all for standing with me through all this and encouraging me to stay strong," he added.

For the unversed, the Australian Open will commence on January 17.

Novak Djokovic, on Monday (January 10), was granted the permission to be out of detention after winning a court case in Australia against the cancellation of his visa by the authorities in the country.

Novak Djokovic, on Monday (January 10), was granted the permission to be out of detention after winning a court case in Australia against the cancellation of his visa by the authorities in the country. Last week, the World number one player had landed in Australia with an exemption for Covid vaccination -- from the Victorian government -- however, his visa wasn't clear and exemption grounds were deemed to be unsatisfactory by the authorities at the airport. From thereon, the 34-year-old Serbian was kept in an immigration centre. Post the decision on Monday, Djokovic has been out of detention but deportation threat still looms large. However, his family members have rejoiced and are on cloud nine post the superstar tennis player's victory over the Australian government. ALSO READ | 'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open "Novak is free. A little while ago he was training on the court. He went to Australia to play tennis, to play another Australian Open and set another record," his brother Djordje said during a press conference in the Serbian capital Belgrade. "Truth and justice came to the light. I would like to thank the justice system of Australia," Djordje added. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal reacts as Australian judge orders Djokovic's release from detention ahead of Aus Open "This is the biggest victory in his career, bigger than all his grand slams," said his mother Dijana Djokovic during a press conference in the Serbian capital Belgrade. Djokovic himself tweeted post his release as he has commenced training for the forthcoming Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, in Melbourne. He tweeted saying, "I'm pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen," Djokovic said in a tweet while sharing a picture of himself with his team. I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened,I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. 👇 pic.twitter.com/iJVbMfQ037 — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 10, 2022 × "I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans. For now I cannot say more but THANK YOU all for standing with me through all this and encouraging me to stay strong," he added. For the unversed, the Australian Open will commence on January 17.

Biggest victory in his career, bigger than all Grand Slams, says Djokovic's family after court's decision

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17.&nbsp;

Ahead of the calendar year's first Grand Slam, Djokovic got involved in a huge controversy when he announced that he is heading for Melbourne with an exemption received from the Victorian government, with regard to Covid vaccination, to play the Aus Open. The Serbian's stance on Covid vaccination remains known to all, however, his exemption was deemed unsatisfactory by the authorities on his arrival in Australia, on Wednesday (January 5), which put him in a detention centre. Thus, the court's decision was due to come on Monday and it has favoured the tennis superstar to remain&nbsp;in the country and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title overall.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-government-ready-to-re-cancel-novak-djokovics-visa-after-court-orders-tennis-stars-release-443575">Australian government ready to re-cancel Novak Djokovic's visa after court orders tennis star's release</a>

On hearing the court's decision, Djokovic's competitor and world number 6 Rafael Nadal also reacted to the new developments.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Whether or not I agree with Djokovic on some things, justice has spoken and has said that he has the right to participate in the Australian Open and I think it is the fairest decision to do so, if it has been resolved that way. I wish him the best of luck," Nadal told Spanish radio Onda Cero on Monday.

He added, "On a personal level, I`d much rather he didn`t play," Nadal said, laughing along with interviewer. "It`s sports, many interests move around it, on a general level, at an economic, advertising level. Everything is much better when the best can be playing," Nadal said, before defending the Covid vaccination once again. He concluded by saying, "The most important institutions in the world say that the vaccine is the way to stop this pandemic and the disaster that we have been living for the last 20 months."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pranksters-stream-music-and-porn-at-novak-djokovics-virtual-court-hearing-443569">Pranksters stream music and porn at Novak Djokovic's virtual court hearing</a>

The tennis fans would hope for the focus to shift entirely on the game ahead of the Australian Open, from next week. Many believe it will be a showdown between Nadal and Djokovic as the duo will fight hard to become the first male tennis player to get to 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Roger Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are all tied at 20 GS titles each.

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17.

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17. Ahead of the calendar year's first Grand Slam, Djokovic got involved in a huge controversy when he announced that he is heading for Melbourne with an exemption received from the Victorian government, with regard to Covid vaccination, to play the Aus Open. The Serbian's stance on Covid vaccination remains known to all, however, his exemption was deemed unsatisfactory by the authorities on his arrival in Australia, on Wednesday (January 5), which put him in a detention centre. Thus, the court's decision was due to come on Monday and it has favoured the tennis superstar to remain in the country and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title overall. ALSO READ | Australian government ready to re-cancel Novak Djokovic's visa after court orders tennis star's release On hearing the court's decision, Djokovic's competitor and world number 6 Rafael Nadal also reacted to the new developments. "Whether or not I agree with Djokovic on some things, justice has spoken and has said that he has the right to participate in the Australian Open and I think it is the fairest decision to do so, if it has been resolved that way. I wish him the best of luck," Nadal told Spanish radio Onda Cero on Monday. He added, "On a personal level, I`d much rather he didn`t play," Nadal said, laughing along with interviewer. "It`s sports, many interests move around it, on a general level, at an economic, advertising level. Everything is much better when the best can be playing," Nadal said, before defending the Covid vaccination once again. He concluded by saying, "The most important institutions in the world say that the vaccine is the way to stop this pandemic and the disaster that we have been living for the last 20 months." ALSO READ | Pranksters stream music and porn at Novak Djokovic's virtual court hearing The tennis fans would hope for the focus to shift entirely on the game ahead of the Australian Open, from next week. Many believe it will be a showdown between Nadal and Djokovic as the duo will fight hard to become the first male tennis player to get to 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Roger Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are all tied at 20 GS titles each.

Rafael Nadal reacts as Australian judge orders Djokovic's release from detention ahead of Aus Open

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. The Serbian's apprehensions regarding the Covid-19 vaccination isn't unknown. As per the rules, every player has to be double vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open. Hence, Djokovic had announced earlier this week that he has got exemption to participate in the showpiece event.

However, the Serb was denied entry in Australia after the country's Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed that his visa has been cancelled as 'rules are rules' for one and all. Thus, the 34-year-old superstar tennis player was taken to a government detention hotel, on Wednesday (January 5), after being&nbsp;stopped at the airport as the Australian Federal Border Force officials claimed that he wasn't able to justify the grounds for his exemption (granted by the Victorian government). Despite a legal action from Djokovic's end, the state lawyer&nbsp;Christopher Tran has made it clear that Australia won't deport him before a final court hearing, on Monday (January 10).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-delays-novak-djokovics-deportation-whats-next-for-world-no-1-and-his-bid-for-aus-open-title-442621">Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title?</a>

Thus, Rafael Nadal has spoken at length on Djokovic's Aus Open saga. In a press conference, the Spaniard said, "From my point of view, that's the only thing that I can say is I believe in what the people who knows about medicine says, and if the people says that we need to get vaccinated, we need to get the vaccine. That's my point of view."

"I went through the COVID. I have been vaccinated twice. If you do this, you don't have any problem to play here. That's the only clear thing."

The 35-year-old Nadal further asserted, "The only for me clear thing is if you are vaccinated, you can play in the Australian Open and everywhere, and the world in my opinion have been suffering enough to not follow the rules."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-novak-djokovics-visa-to-enter-country-cancelled-pm-scott-morrison-says-rules-are-rules-442535">Australian Open: Novak Djokovic's visa to enter country cancelled, PM Scott Morrison says 'rules are rules'</a>

The 2009 Aus Open winner added,&nbsp;"I think if he wanted, he would be playing here in Australia without a problem. He went through another -- he made his own decisions, and everybody is free to take their own decisions, but then there are some consequences."

"Ofcourse I don't like the situation that is happening. In some way I feel sorry for him. But at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago, so he makes his own decision."&nbsp;

Nadal, however, didn't encourage Djokoivic to take the vaccine and, in turn,&nbsp;said, "I don't encourage no one. I feel everyone have to do whatever, whatever feels that is good for him. But there are rules, and if you don't want to get the vaccine, then you can have some troubles. That's the thing."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Rules are Rules': Australia bars Novak Djokovic from Australian Open

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"Of course after a lot of people had been dying for two years, my feeling is with the vaccine is the only way to stop this pandemic. That's what the people who understands about this says, and I am no one to create a different opinion," he concluded.

The Australian Open will commence on January 17. With the defending champion caught in a huge spot of bother amid vaccine status, it seems that Nadal will start as overwhelming favourite to win his second title Down Under.

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

There has been a lot happening in tennis ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Before the first Grand Slam of the calendar year, world number 1 Novak Djokovic has made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. The Serbian's apprehensions regarding the Covid-19 vaccination isn't unknown. As per the rules, every player has to be double vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open. Hence, Djokovic had announced earlier this week that he has got exemption to participate in the showpiece event. However, the Serb was denied entry in Australia after the country's Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed that his visa has been cancelled as 'rules are rules' for one and all. Thus, the 34-year-old superstar tennis player was taken to a government detention hotel, on Wednesday (January 5), after being stopped at the airport as the Australian Federal Border Force officials claimed that he wasn't able to justify the grounds for his exemption (granted by the Victorian government). Despite a legal action from Djokovic's end, the state lawyer Christopher Tran has made it clear that Australia won't deport him before a final court hearing, on Monday (January 10). ALSO READ | Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title? Thus, Rafael Nadal has spoken at length on Djokovic's Aus Open saga. In a press conference, the Spaniard said, "From my point of view, that's the only thing that I can say is I believe in what the people who knows about medicine says, and if the people says that we need to get vaccinated, we need to get the vaccine. That's my point of view." "I went through the COVID. I have been vaccinated twice. If you do this, you don't have any problem to play here. That's the only clear thing." The 35-year-old Nadal further asserted, "The only for me clear thing is if you are vaccinated, you can play in the Australian Open and everywhere, and the world in my opinion have been suffering enough to not follow the rules." × ALSO READ | Australian Open: Novak Djokovic's visa to enter country cancelled, PM Scott Morrison says 'rules are rules' The 2009 Aus Open winner added, "I think if he wanted, he would be playing here in Australia without a problem. He went through another -- he made his own decisions, and everybody is free to take their own decisions, but then there are some consequences." "Ofcourse I don't like the situation that is happening. In some way I feel sorry for him. But at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago, so he makes his own decision." Nadal, however, didn't encourage Djokoivic to take the vaccine and, in turn, said, "I don't encourage no one. I feel everyone have to do whatever, whatever feels that is good for him. But there are rules, and if you don't want to get the vaccine, then you can have some troubles. That's the thing." Watch | Gravitas: 'Rules are Rules': Australia bars Novak Djokovic from Australian Open "Of course after a lot of people had been dying for two years, my feeling is with the vaccine is the only way to stop this pandemic. That's what the people who understands about this says, and I am no one to create a different opinion," he concluded. The Australian Open will commence on January 17. With the defending champion caught in a huge spot of bother amid vaccine status, it seems that Nadal will start as overwhelming favourite to win his second title Down Under.

'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport.

Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/feel-sorry-for-him-but-he-rafael-nadal-opines-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-2022-saga-442633">'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga</a>

"Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him."

Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t."

She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-delays-novak-djokovics-deportation-whats-next-for-world-no-1-and-his-bid-for-aus-open-title-442621">Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title?</a>

On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." 
 
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar&nbsp;Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination.

Ahead of the Australian Open, World number 1 Novak Djokovic has made a lot of noise. However, the Serbian is in the news due to all the wrong reasons. While his stand on Covid-19 vaccination remains known to all, he had mentioned that he was coming to participate in the first Grand Slam of the year after getting an exemption from the Victorian government with regard to the vaccination. As per the rules, every player needs to be fully vaccinated to participate in the Aus Open 2022. However, Djokovic was set to participate on grounds of medical exemption to take the jab. Nonetheless, the 34-year-old arrived in Australia on Wednesday (January 5) and found himself in a detention centre after not being allowed to enter the country with his visa being denied by the authorities at the airport. Djokovic is now in a quarantine hotel in Melbourne after his lawyers secured an agreement for him to remain in the country before the court hearing on his lack of proof of exemption. Thus, the Serbian's father has lashed out at the officials for the unfortunate turn of events. ALSO READ | 'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga "Novak has become the symbol and a leader of the libertarian world, a world of poor and oppressed nations and people. My son has shown that a small and heroic country like Serbia can boast of the world`s all-time best tennis player and athlete," Djokovic`s father Srdjan told the Telegraf website. "They can incarcerate him tonight, shackle him tomorrow, but truth is like water, as it always finds its way. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world that doesn`t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy," he said. "Novak has shown you can achieve anything if you have dreams, and he shares these dreams with billions of people who look up to him." Meanwhile, a concerned mother of Djokovic -- Dijana -- said in a press conference in Belgrade on Thursday, "I spoke with him a couple of hours ago, he was good, we didn’t speak a lot but we spoke for a few minutes. He was trying to sleep, but he couldn’t." She added, "As a mother, what can I say, you can just imagine how I feel, I feel terrible since yesterday, the last 24 hours. They are keeping him like a prisoner, it’s just not fair, it’s not human. I hope he will stay strong as we are also trying, to give him some energy to keep going. I hope he will win. His accommodation [is] terrible. It’s just some small, immigration hotel, if it is a hotel at all. With bugs, it’s all dirty, the food is terrible." ALSO READ | Australia delays Novak Djokovic's deportation: What's next for world no. 1 and his bid for Aus Open title? On the other hand, Djokovic's former mentor Niki Pilic told Reuters that the entire situation is "farcical" and a "disgrace", adding that: "Politics have interfered with sports here as it so often does." Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the tennis superstar Djokovic would receive no special treatment. In this regard, Pilic told the news agency, "The Australian Prime Minister is trying to please a part of the country`s society and improve his poor political rating by saying `Djokovic can`t compete because I said that unvaccinated athletes will be banned from competing`."

Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday. 
Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime won their respective singles matches in the evening session to power Canada past Germany in Group C into the semi-finals and a Saturday meeting against the Russians. 
Poland will take on Spain in the first semi-final on Friday.

A depleted Russia, who beat Italy in last year`s title match, came into the $10 million tournament without fifth-ranked Andrey Rublev and world number 18 Aslan Karatsev after both tested positive for COVID-19 in the lead-up to the team event. In a winner-takes-all final Group B tie, Italy took the lead through Jannik Sinner`s 7-6(6) 6-3 win over Roman Safiullin but Medvedev staved off a fight back from world number seven and Wimbledon finalist Berrettini to win 6-2 6-7(5) 6-4 and level the tie.

"The first set I was in control and it`s tricky because you think that things will continue to go your way but that`s not the case when you`re up against a top 10 player," U.S. Open champion Medvedev said. All four players returned for the decisive doubles at Ken Rosewall Arena and it was the Russian pair of Medvedev and Safiullin who emerged triumphant, taking a final set super tiebreak 5-7 6-4 10-5.

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This year`s ATP Cup has featured 16 teams, with the four group winners proceeding to the semi-finals. 
Daniel Evans and Jamie Murray rallied to beat Americans Taylor Fritz and John Isner 6-7(3) 7-5 10-8 in the deciding doubles to hand Britain a 2-1 win and keep alive their hopes of winning that group. Evans picked up his third straight singles win at the tournament by taking down big server Isner 6-4 7-6(3). Fritz then forced the tie into a deciding doubles after beating Briton Cameron Norrie 7-6(4) 3-6 6-1.

Britain needed Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, to defeat Canada in the final group tie to help them clinch the last semi-final spot, but it was not to be. After Shapovalov beat Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6(5) 4-6 6-3 in the opening singles to give Canada the lead, 11th-ranked Auger-Aliassime stunned world number three Zverev 6-4 4-6 6-3 to seal the contest.

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It was Auger-Aliassime`s first career win against a top-five player and will be a timely boost to his confidence with the year`s first Grand Slam starting from Jan. 17 in Melbourne. "It feels good to beat Zverev," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I played a great match. He is a great player and he has beaten me a couple of times before, so I am happy I was able to get the job done today, especially for the team."

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev beat Italian Matteo Berrettini in the singles and then returned to the court to clinch the deciding doubles and fire defending champions Russia into the ATP Cup semi-finals on Thursday. Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime won their respective singles matches in the evening session to power Canada past Germany in Group C into the semi-finals and a Saturday meeting against the Russians. Poland will take on Spain in the first semi-final on Friday. A depleted Russia, who beat Italy in last year`s title match, came into the $10 million tournament without fifth-ranked Andrey Rublev and world number 18 Aslan Karatsev after both tested positive for COVID-19 in the lead-up to the team event. In a winner-takes-all final Group B tie, Italy took the lead through Jannik Sinner`s 7-6(6) 6-3 win over Roman Safiullin but Medvedev staved off a fight back from world number seven and Wimbledon finalist Berrettini to win 6-2 6-7(5) 6-4 and level the tie. "The first set I was in control and it`s tricky because you think that things will continue to go your way but that`s not the case when you`re up against a top 10 player," U.S. Open champion Medvedev said. All four players returned for the decisive doubles at Ken Rosewall Arena and it was the Russian pair of Medvedev and Safiullin who emerged triumphant, taking a final set super tiebreak 5-7 6-4 10-5. ALSO READ | 'Feel sorry for him but he .....': Rafael Nadal opines on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open 2022 saga This year`s ATP Cup has featured 16 teams, with the four group winners proceeding to the semi-finals. Daniel Evans and Jamie Murray rallied to beat Americans Taylor Fritz and John Isner 6-7(3) 7-5 10-8 in the deciding doubles to hand Britain a 2-1 win and keep alive their hopes of winning that group. Evans picked up his third straight singles win at the tournament by taking down big server Isner 6-4 7-6(3). Fritz then forced the tie into a deciding doubles after beating Briton Cameron Norrie 7-6(4) 3-6 6-1. Britain needed Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, to defeat Canada in the final group tie to help them clinch the last semi-final spot, but it was not to be. After Shapovalov beat Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6(5) 4-6 6-3 in the opening singles to give Canada the lead, 11th-ranked Auger-Aliassime stunned world number three Zverev 6-4 4-6 6-3 to seal the contest. ALSO READ | Want to feel like every time I step on court I'm having fun, says Osaka on return post 4-month break It was Auger-Aliassime`s first career win against a top-five player and will be a timely boost to his confidence with the year`s first Grand Slam starting from Jan. 17 in Melbourne. "It feels good to beat Zverev," Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview. "I played a great match. He is a great player and he has beaten me a couple of times before, so I am happy I was able to get the job done today, especially for the team."

ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals

Novak Djokovic landed in Australia on Wednesday in the middle of a political maelstrom over his COVID-19 vaccine status, as a visa dispute added a new twist to the world number one`s attempt to play in the Australian Open. Djokovic, who has won nine titles at Melbourne Park including the last three, confirmed on Tuesday that had received a vaccination exemption to allow him to bid for a record 21st major title at the Australian Open, which starts on Jan. 17.

His announcement that he had received a medical exemption to play provoked outrage in Melbourne, which has endured the world`s longest cumulative lockdown and where an outbreak of the Omicron variant has sent case numbers to record levels. Prime Minister Scott Morrison had already suggested Djokovic`s participation was not a done deal and he would have to satisfy the federal government, which has responsibility for international borders and visas and was not part of the exemption process.

And Australian media reported that he had now been held up by a visa error after landing. The Age newspaper said the federal Border Force had contacted the Victoria state government asking if it would support his application after his team applied for the wrong kind of visa.

While not confirming the reason, acting Victoria Sports Minister Jaala Pulford said: "The Federal Government has asked if we will support Novak Djokovic’s visa application to enter Australia. "We will not be providing Novak Djokovic with individual visa application support to participate in the 2022 Australian Open Grand Slam." 
It was not clear whether the federal government would allow his entry. The Border Force could not be reached for comment.

Morrison said earlier there would be "no special rules" for Djokovic on his exemption. "If that evidence is insufficient, then he won`t be treated any different to anyone else and he`ll be on the next plane home," Morrison told a media conference.

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Tennis Australia and government officials moved quickly to stress that Djokovic, who has said he is opposed to COVID-19 vaccinations, had received no preferential treatment. Australian tennis great Rod Laver, after whom the main showcourt at Melbourne Park in the state of Victoria is named, warned that Djokovic might face hostility from the local crowd.

"I think it might get ugly," Laver told News Corp. "I`d think the Victorian people would be thinking `Yes I`d love to see him play and compete but at the same time, there`s a right way and a wrong way.` "Yes, you`re a great player and you`ve performed and won so many tournaments, so it can`t be physical. So what is the problem?"

Melbourne local Christine Wharton said it was a "disgrace". "We`ve all done the right thing, we`ve all gone out and got our jabs and our boosters and we have someone that`s come from overseas and all of a sudden he`s been exempt and can play and I think it`s an absolute disgrace and I won`t be watching it."

EXPLANATION `HELPFUL`

Organisers Tennis Australia have stipulated that everyone at Melbourne Park must be vaccinated or have a medical exemption granted by an independent panel of experts. With the exemption, Djokovic will not be required to quarantine and will enjoy the same freedoms in Melbourne as someone who is vaccinated. Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said the independent panel consisted of doctors from the fields of immunology, infectious disease and general practice and all exemptions met conditions set out by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation.

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"We completely understand and empathise with ... people being upset about the fact that Novak has come in because of his statements over the past couple of years around vaccination," he told reporters. "It`ll certainly be helpful if Novak was to explain the conditions in which he`s sought an exemption ... but ultimately it`s up to him," he said. Playing will give Djokovic the chance to nose ahead of Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer, who also have 20 Grand Slam crowns.

In a social media post on Tuesday Djokovic said "Let`s go 2022" alongside a picture of himself at an airport as he confirmed he was heading to Australia with the exemption. The decision has drawn a mixed reaction from players. "I think it`s a tough one. As we`ve seen a little bit in the last day or so, from the Australian public, I know how hard it has been for Australians ... but in particular Victorians have had a real rough trot over the last 18 months and two years," Australia`s Ash Barty, women`s number one, said.

American doubles specialist Nicole Melichar-Martinez tweeted: "I don`t understand why @DjokerNole is getting so much hate for his vaccine exemption. He`s within the rules, and the government could have said `no` but they didn`t."

Novak Djokovic landed in Australia on Wednesday in the middle of a political maelstrom over his COVID-19 vaccine status, as a visa dispute added a new twist to the world number one`s attempt to play in the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic landed in Australia on Wednesday in the middle of a political maelstrom over his COVID-19 vaccine status, as a visa dispute added a new twist to the world number one`s attempt to play in the Australian Open. Djokovic, who has won nine titles at Melbourne Park including the last three, confirmed on Tuesday that had received a vaccination exemption to allow him to bid for a record 21st major title at the Australian Open, which starts on Jan. 17. His announcement that he had received a medical exemption to play provoked outrage in Melbourne, which has endured the world`s longest cumulative lockdown and where an outbreak of the Omicron variant has sent case numbers to record levels. Prime Minister Scott Morrison had already suggested Djokovic`s participation was not a done deal and he would have to satisfy the federal government, which has responsibility for international borders and visas and was not part of the exemption process. And Australian media reported that he had now been held up by a visa error after landing. The Age newspaper said the federal Border Force had contacted the Victoria state government asking if it would support his application after his team applied for the wrong kind of visa. While not confirming the reason, acting Victoria Sports Minister Jaala Pulford said: "The Federal Government has asked if we will support Novak Djokovic’s visa application to enter Australia. "We will not be providing Novak Djokovic with individual visa application support to participate in the 2022 Australian Open Grand Slam." It was not clear whether the federal government would allow his entry. The Border Force could not be reached for comment. Morrison said earlier there would be "no special rules" for Djokovic on his exemption. "If that evidence is insufficient, then he won`t be treated any different to anyone else and he`ll be on the next plane home," Morrison told a media conference. ALSO READ | 'Shame!! shame, shame': Australia reacts to Novak Djokovic's Australian Open vaccine exemption Tennis Australia and government officials moved quickly to stress that Djokovic, who has said he is opposed to COVID-19 vaccinations, had received no preferential treatment. Australian tennis great Rod Laver, after whom the main showcourt at Melbourne Park in the state of Victoria is named, warned that Djokovic might face hostility from the local crowd. "I think it might get ugly," Laver told News Corp. "I`d think the Victorian people would be thinking `Yes I`d love to see him play and compete but at the same time, there`s a right way and a wrong way.` "Yes, you`re a great player and you`ve performed and won so many tournaments, so it can`t be physical. So what is the problem?" Melbourne local Christine Wharton said it was a "disgrace". "We`ve all done the right thing, we`ve all gone out and got our jabs and our boosters and we have someone that`s come from overseas and all of a sudden he`s been exempt and can play and I think it`s an absolute disgrace and I won`t be watching it." EXPLANATION `HELPFUL` Organisers Tennis Australia have stipulated that everyone at Melbourne Park must be vaccinated or have a medical exemption granted by an independent panel of experts. With the exemption, Djokovic will not be required to quarantine and will enjoy the same freedoms in Melbourne as someone who is vaccinated. Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said the independent panel consisted of doctors from the fields of immunology, infectious disease and general practice and all exemptions met conditions set out by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation. ALSO READ | Simona Halep advances in Melbourne, qualifier Ricardas Berankis to face spaniard Rafael Nadal "We completely understand and empathise with ... people being upset about the fact that Novak has come in because of his statements over the past couple of years around vaccination," he told reporters. "It`ll certainly be helpful if Novak was to explain the conditions in which he`s sought an exemption ... but ultimately it`s up to him," he said. Playing will give Djokovic the chance to nose ahead of Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer, who also have 20 Grand Slam crowns. In a social media post on Tuesday Djokovic said "Let`s go 2022" alongside a picture of himself at an airport as he confirmed he was heading to Australia with the exemption. The decision has drawn a mixed reaction from players. "I think it`s a tough one. As we`ve seen a little bit in the last day or so, from the Australian public, I know how hard it has been for Australians ... but in particular Victorians have had a real rough trot over the last 18 months and two years," Australia`s Ash Barty, women`s number one, said. American doubles specialist Nicole Melichar-Martinez tweeted: "I don`t understand why @DjokerNole is getting so much hate for his vaccine exemption. He`s within the rules, and the government could have said `no` but they didn`t."

Aus Open 2022: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic lands amid vaccine storm but held up by visa issue

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka said rediscovering her love for tennis and not focusing on results and rankings were among her top goals for 2022, following her return to action in Melbourne on Tuesday after a four-month break. The Japanese former world number one struggled for form last year since withdrawing from the French Open in May following a row with tournament officials over required media appearances, which she said had a negative impact on her.

After losing to Leylah Fernandez in the third round of the U.S. Open in September, Osaka took a break from the sport to focus on her mental health. The 24-year-old looked rusty in her 6-4 3-6 6-3 victory over Frenchwoman Alize Cornet on Tuesday but said she was happy with the way she handled herself.

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"I only really have one major goal this year, and it`s completely unrelated to results and stuff like that. I just want to feel like every time I step on the court... I`m having fun," Osaka told reporters. "I can walk off the court knowing that even if I lost, I tried as hard as I could. Also I have a goal in the press room, that I`m never going to cry again, so hopefully that works out in my favour.

"I`m the type of person that cared a little bit too much about the results and the ranking. I just need to find a way to enjoy the game again, because that`s the reason why I was playing in the first place." Osaka said talking to her family and friends helped her make a comeback.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shame-shame-shame-australia-reacts-to-novak-djokovics-australian-open-vaccine-exemption-442330">'Shame!! shame, shame': Australia reacts to Novak Djokovic's Australian Open vaccine exemption</a>

"I felt like that was a way of decompressing the pressure I had on myself. Then I just slowly started to regain the feeling of love that I had towards the game," Osaka said. "It`s not like it completely went away but I felt it got overshadowed by a lot of emotions that I was feeling just by constantly playing year after year since I was - I started tennis when I was three and I never really took a break."

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka said rediscovering her love for tennis and not focusing on results and rankings were among her top goals for 2022, following her return to action in Melbourne on Tuesday after a four-month break.

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka said rediscovering her love for tennis and not focusing on results and rankings were among her top goals for 2022, following her return to action in Melbourne on Tuesday after a four-month break. The Japanese former world number one struggled for form last year since withdrawing from the French Open in May following a row with tournament officials over required media appearances, which she said had a negative impact on her. After losing to Leylah Fernandez in the third round of the U.S. Open in September, Osaka took a break from the sport to focus on her mental health. The 24-year-old looked rusty in her 6-4 3-6 6-3 victory over Frenchwoman Alize Cornet on Tuesday but said she was happy with the way she handled herself. ALSO READ | Australian Open 2022: Novak Djokovic needs to prove exemption or go home, says Aussie PM "I only really have one major goal this year, and it`s completely unrelated to results and stuff like that. I just want to feel like every time I step on the court... I`m having fun," Osaka told reporters. "I can walk off the court knowing that even if I lost, I tried as hard as I could. Also I have a goal in the press room, that I`m never going to cry again, so hopefully that works out in my favour. "I`m the type of person that cared a little bit too much about the results and the ranking. I just need to find a way to enjoy the game again, because that`s the reason why I was playing in the first place." Osaka said talking to her family and friends helped her make a comeback. ALSO READ | 'Shame!! shame, shame': Australia reacts to Novak Djokovic's Australian Open vaccine exemption "I felt like that was a way of decompressing the pressure I had on myself. Then I just slowly started to regain the feeling of love that I had towards the game," Osaka said. "It`s not like it completely went away but I felt it got overshadowed by a lot of emotions that I was feeling just by constantly playing year after year since I was - I started tennis when I was three and I never really took a break."

Want to feel like every time I step on court I'm having fun, says Osaka on return post 4-month break

Novak Djokovic needs to prove that he has a genuine medical exemption from COVID-19 vaccination when he lands in Australia or he will be "on the next plane home", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday. The world No. 1 announced on Tuesday he received an exemption to play in the Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne and said he was heading to Australia.

Tennis Australia and the Victorian state government said Djokovic was one of a "handful" of successful applicants among 26 people who sought exemptions from being vaccinated, but had not received any special treatment in the anonymous application process. "We await his presentation and what evidence he provides us to support that," Morrison told a media conference after chairing a meeting of state leaders about dealing with record levels of COVID infections in the country.

"If that evidence is insufficient, then he won`t be treated any different to anyone else and he`ll be on the next plane home. There should be no special rules for Novak Djokovic at all. None whatsoever." The decision to grant Djokovic an exemption to the tournament sparked sharp criticism in Australia, where more than 90% of people over 16 have had two vaccine doses against COVID-19..

Melbourne had the world`s longest cumulative lockdown to contain COVID, and an outbreak of the Omicron variant has sent case numbers to record levels. "I think lots of people in the Victorian community will find this to be a disappointing outcome," acting Victorian Sports Minister Jaala Pulford told a media conference earlier on Wednesday after news of Djokovic`s exemption.

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"But the process is the process; nobody has had special treatment. The process is incredibly robust." 
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said the two-stage application process was confidential and run by independent experts. All applications were assessed to ensure any exemptions met conditions set out by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). Tiley said those reasons included previous adverse response to vaccines, recent major surgery or myocarditis or certified evidence of a COVID infection in the previous six months. 
The Serbian, who had declined to reveal his vaccination status, said previously that he was unsure whether he would compete at the Jan. 17-30 tournament in Melbourne due to concerns over Australia`s quarantine rules. " 
"We completely understand and empathise with ... people being upset about the fact that Novak has come in because of his statements over the past couple of years around vaccination," Tiley told reporters.

"However it is ultimately up to him to discuss with the public his condition, if he chooses to do that, and the reasons why he received an exemption."

Novak Djokovic needs to prove that he has a genuine medical exemption from COVID-19 vaccination when he lands in Australia or he will be "on the next plane home", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday.

Novak Djokovic needs to prove that he has a genuine medical exemption from COVID-19 vaccination when he lands in Australia or he will be "on the next plane home", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday. The world No. 1 announced on Tuesday he received an exemption to play in the Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne and said he was heading to Australia. Tennis Australia and the Victorian state government said Djokovic was one of a "handful" of successful applicants among 26 people who sought exemptions from being vaccinated, but had not received any special treatment in the anonymous application process. "We await his presentation and what evidence he provides us to support that," Morrison told a media conference after chairing a meeting of state leaders about dealing with record levels of COVID infections in the country. "If that evidence is insufficient, then he won`t be treated any different to anyone else and he`ll be on the next plane home. There should be no special rules for Novak Djokovic at all. None whatsoever." The decision to grant Djokovic an exemption to the tournament sparked sharp criticism in Australia, where more than 90% of people over 16 have had two vaccine doses against COVID-19.. Melbourne had the world`s longest cumulative lockdown to contain COVID, and an outbreak of the Omicron variant has sent case numbers to record levels. "I think lots of people in the Victorian community will find this to be a disappointing outcome," acting Victorian Sports Minister Jaala Pulford told a media conference earlier on Wednesday after news of Djokovic`s exemption. ALSO READ | 'Shame!! shame, shame': Australia reacts to Novak Djokovic's Australian Open vaccine exemption "But the process is the process; nobody has had special treatment. The process is incredibly robust." Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said the two-stage application process was confidential and run by independent experts. All applications were assessed to ensure any exemptions met conditions set out by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). Tiley said those reasons included previous adverse response to vaccines, recent major surgery or myocarditis or certified evidence of a COVID infection in the previous six months. The Serbian, who had declined to reveal his vaccination status, said previously that he was unsure whether he would compete at the Jan. 17-30 tournament in Melbourne due to concerns over Australia`s quarantine rules. " "We completely understand and empathise with ... people being upset about the fact that Novak has come in because of his statements over the past couple of years around vaccination," Tiley told reporters. "However it is ultimately up to him to discuss with the public his condition, if he chooses to do that, and the reasons why he received an exemption."

Australian Open 2022: Novak Djokovic needs to prove exemption or go home, says Aussie PM

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka was rusty on her return to action for the first time in four months on Tuesday but still advanced to the second round of the Melbourne Summer Set tournament with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Alize Cornet. Osaka, who last played competitively when she lost to Leylah Fernandez in the third round of the U.S. Open in September, displayed plenty of her trademark power but often lacked accuracy at the Australian Open warm-up event.

The Japanese player struggled with her first serve while committing 57 unforced errors, including eight double faults, as she eventually saw off the former world number 11. "I feel like I probably made a lot of unforced errors today but I kind of expected that because it is the first match," said Osaka. "I was really nervous so I`m just glad that I was able to hold my serve on the last game."

The match was the first since Osaka announced she was taking an indefinite break from tennis following her loss to Fernandez at Flushing Meadows. That decision brought an end to a season that had also seen her withdraw from the French Open citing mental health issues and miss Wimbledon during a mid-season hiatus.

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Playing on the same Rod Laver Arena court where she has won two Australian Open titles, the former world number one looked relaxed in the opening set in front of a small crowd. "I really love playing here," said Osaka. "I love New York, but this might be my favourite Slam so it feels really good to always be back here. It feels really nice to play in front of people."

The 24-year-old squandered three break points in the fifth game but made amends two games later to take the opener. After an early break in the second set, Osaka looked to be heading for a comfortable win but the loss of four consecutive games saw Cornet pull level. Osaka, who is ranked number 13 in the world, regained her poise early in the third set, winning the first three games before closing out the match.

In the men`s ATP 250 event at the same venue, former world number one Andy Murray suffered a setback in his preparation for the Australian Open as Argentine Facundo Bagnis overcame the Briton 6-3 5-7 6-3 in the round of 32. "To beat him is amazing, I`m really happy. I enjoyed every point in the match," world number 76 Bagnis said. 
Five-times Australian Open finalist Murray, down at 134th in the world rankings after layoffs due to hip surgery, has accepted a wild card to the main draw of the year`s first major, which begins on Jan. 17.

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka was rusty on her return to action for the first time in four months on Tuesday but still advanced to the second round of the Melbourne Summer Set tournament with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Alize Cornet.

Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka was rusty on her return to action for the first time in four months on Tuesday but still advanced to the second round of the Melbourne Summer Set tournament with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Alize Cornet. Osaka, who last played competitively when she lost to Leylah Fernandez in the third round of the U.S. Open in September, displayed plenty of her trademark power but often lacked accuracy at the Australian Open warm-up event. The Japanese player struggled with her first serve while committing 57 unforced errors, including eight double faults, as she eventually saw off the former world number 11. "I feel like I probably made a lot of unforced errors today but I kind of expected that because it is the first match," said Osaka. "I was really nervous so I`m just glad that I was able to hold my serve on the last game." The match was the first since Osaka announced she was taking an indefinite break from tennis following her loss to Fernandez at Flushing Meadows. That decision brought an end to a season that had also seen her withdraw from the French Open citing mental health issues and miss Wimbledon during a mid-season hiatus. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios opts out of warm-up event due to asthma Playing on the same Rod Laver Arena court where she has won two Australian Open titles, the former world number one looked relaxed in the opening set in front of a small crowd. "I really love playing here," said Osaka. "I love New York, but this might be my favourite Slam so it feels really good to always be back here. It feels really nice to play in front of people." The 24-year-old squandered three break points in the fifth game but made amends two games later to take the opener. After an early break in the second set, Osaka looked to be heading for a comfortable win but the loss of four consecutive games saw Cornet pull level. Osaka, who is ranked number 13 in the world, regained her poise early in the third set, winning the first three games before closing out the match. In the men`s ATP 250 event at the same venue, former world number one Andy Murray suffered a setback in his preparation for the Australian Open as Argentine Facundo Bagnis overcame the Briton 6-3 5-7 6-3 in the round of 32. "To beat him is amazing, I`m really happy. I enjoyed every point in the match," world number 76 Bagnis said. Five-times Australian Open finalist Murray, down at 134th in the world rankings after layoffs due to hip surgery, has accepted a wild card to the main draw of the year`s first major, which begins on Jan. 17.

Naomi Osaka advances to second round of Melbourne Summer Set tournament with tight win over Alize Cornet

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under.

Tiley and his team put in a Herculean effort to stage the tournament safely in February when Australia still had its borders closed, spending a fortune on biosecurity measures to reassure the local community.

Twelve months on and things have not got any easier for Tennis Australia with Omicron spreading through the country just as the first players are set to arrive for warm-up events ahead of the Melbourne Park tournament.

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"2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021," Tiley said. "It was a walk in the park in comparison to this one.

"2021 was hard but it hasn't been easy. So many variables. It`s something new, but you wake up in the morning with your team and you just hope they hang in there."

While 1,000 players and staff who arrived from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine for the 2021 edition, the 3,300 coming for next year`s tournament will be free to roam the city once they have returned a negative PCR test.

Everybody in the Melbourne Park precinct in January will need to be vaccinated or hold a medical exemption granted by the Australian health authorities.

That in itself will present a challenge to manage but full crowds will offer Tennis Australia the chance to recoup some of the A$100 million ($72.2 million) they lost in the 15 months around the 2021 tournament.

Tiley still expected some participants to test positive for the virus but confirmed that, unlike last year, close contacts will have to isolate only until they return a negative test.

"If they are sharing a room with someone, or they're in the same apartment and someone in that group tests positive, everyone in that room or that apartment has to isolate for seven days," Tiley added.

"So the advice we've given the players, it`s a simple one, 'get your own room'."

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Tiley was confident the organisers will be able to efficiently manage the health protocols and the tournament will start without any delay on Jan. 17.

"In 2021 we were about protecting the community from the players which were coming from environments that were ravaged with the virus that we didn't have," Tiley said.

"In 2022, it's about keeping the players and our patrons on site from not getting Omicron, not getting any variants of the virus."

($1 = 1.3843 Australian dollars)

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under.

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley feels organising the 2022 edition of the Grand Slam has been "10 times" more difficult than this year's edition as the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19 takes hold Down Under. Tiley and his team put in a Herculean effort to stage the tournament safely in February when Australia still had its borders closed, spending a fortune on biosecurity measures to reassure the local community. Twelve months on and things have not got any easier for Tennis Australia with Omicron spreading through the country just as the first players are set to arrive for warm-up events ahead of the Melbourne Park tournament. ALSO READ: 'Can't risk picking up further injury', Dominic Thiem withdraws from ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250 "2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021," Tiley said. "It was a walk in the park in comparison to this one. "2021 was hard but it hasn't been easy. So many variables. It`s something new, but you wake up in the morning with your team and you just hope they hang in there." While 1,000 players and staff who arrived from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine for the 2021 edition, the 3,300 coming for next year`s tournament will be free to roam the city once they have returned a negative PCR test. Everybody in the Melbourne Park precinct in January will need to be vaccinated or hold a medical exemption granted by the Australian health authorities. That in itself will present a challenge to manage but full crowds will offer Tennis Australia the chance to recoup some of the A$100 million ($72.2 million) they lost in the 15 months around the 2021 tournament. Tiley still expected some participants to test positive for the virus but confirmed that, unlike last year, close contacts will have to isolate only until they return a negative test. "If they are sharing a room with someone, or they're in the same apartment and someone in that group tests positive, everyone in that room or that apartment has to isolate for seven days," Tiley added. "So the advice we've given the players, it`s a simple one, 'get your own room'." ALSO READ: Chinese reporter posts fresh unverified footage of Tennis star Peng Shuai online- WATCH Tiley was confident the organisers will be able to efficiently manage the health protocols and the tournament will start without any delay on Jan. 17. "In 2021 we were about protecting the community from the players which were coming from environments that were ravaged with the virus that we didn't have," Tiley said. "In 2022, it's about keeping the players and our patrons on site from not getting Omicron, not getting any variants of the virus." ($1 = 1.3843 Australian dollars)

Organizing for 2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021, says Australian Open boss Craig Tiley

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said players applying for a medical exemption to participate in the Grand Slam without being vaccinated against COVID-19 will have their case reviewed by an independent three-person panel.

Tennis Australia said the panel would consist of doctors from the fields of immunology, infectious disease and general practice and that the move had been agreed in conjunction with the Victoria Department of Health.

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Tiley had previously said all players must be inoculated against COVID-19, with the move throwing the involvement of defending champion Novak Djokovic into doubt as the world number one has yet to disclose his vaccination status.

"We've worked closely with the Victorian government to establish fair and independent protocols for assessing medical exemption applications that will enable us to ensure Australian Open 2022 is safe and enjoyable for everybody," Tiley said.

"Central to this process is that the decisions will be made by independent medical experts and that every applicant gets due consideration."

The Melbourne Park tournament, the first Grand Slam of the year, is due to begin on Jan. 17.

Applicants that pass an initial stage will be subject to a second review conducted by a government-appointed panel of medical experts before the application is submitted to the Australian Immunisation Register.

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All submissions will be confidential, Tennis Australia said.

Martin Pakula, Victoria state`s sports minister, said the process could set a precedent for other big events.

"We are happy there is some rigour around the process, we think it leads to the best possible outcomes," he added.

"They want the safest possible event for players and fans. That involves having the most rigorous medical exemption process."

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said players applying for a medical exemption to participate in the Grand Slam without being vaccinated against COVID-19 will have their case reviewed by an independent three-person panel.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said players applying for a medical exemption to participate in the Grand Slam without being vaccinated against COVID-19 will have their case reviewed by an independent three-person panel. Tennis Australia said the panel would consist of doctors from the fields of immunology, infectious disease and general practice and that the move had been agreed in conjunction with the Victoria Department of Health. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic named as ITF world champion for seventh time, Ash Barty crowned for second time Tiley had previously said all players must be inoculated against COVID-19, with the move throwing the involvement of defending champion Novak Djokovic into doubt as the world number one has yet to disclose his vaccination status. "We've worked closely with the Victorian government to establish fair and independent protocols for assessing medical exemption applications that will enable us to ensure Australian Open 2022 is safe and enjoyable for everybody," Tiley said. "Central to this process is that the decisions will be made by independent medical experts and that every applicant gets due consideration." The Melbourne Park tournament, the first Grand Slam of the year, is due to begin on Jan. 17. Applicants that pass an initial stage will be subject to a second review conducted by a government-appointed panel of medical experts before the application is submitted to the Australian Immunisation Register. ALSO READ | World no. 1 Ashleigh Barty to return to action in Adelaide, Nadal and Osaka in Melbourne ATP event All submissions will be confidential, Tennis Australia said. Martin Pakula, Victoria state`s sports minister, said the process could set a precedent for other big events. "We are happy there is some rigour around the process, we think it leads to the best possible outcomes," he added. "They want the safest possible event for players and fans. That involves having the most rigorous medical exemption process."

Australian Open organisers confirm medical exemption process for unvaccinated players

Roger Federer is unlikely to play in next year's Australian Open but is still determined to make a return to tournament tennis at some stage, according to his coach Ivan Ljubicic.

The 20-times Grand Slam champion has been inactive since losing in the Wimbledon quarter-finals in July and undergoing another round of knee surgery.

Asked whether Federer would be back in action for the first major of the year in January, former world number three Ljubicic said the signs were not promising.

"I think there are very few chances, he is still recovering and knowing him, he wants to be sure he can play to win the tournament and be at 100%," the Croatian told Stats Perform.

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"So I think the Australian Open is not a real possibility right now. But he will go step by step because he is 40 years old now and he needs to be patient. He cannot recover as quickly as he used to."

Federer is tied with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic in the race to be the most successful men`s singles Grand Slam champion of all time and Australian Open organisers would have been hoping to have all three at Melbourne Park.

Nadal, who has had injury issues of his own, has said he will be there, but Djokovic has declined to confirm his presence until Tennis Australia reveals the health protocols for the tournament.

The Serbian world number one has not confirmed whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19, a pre-requisite for entering Australia under current rules.

The Australian government has said it will admit unvaccinated players as long as they are prepared to undergo 14 days of quarantine and the state of Victoria requests an exemption.

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Victoria`s Premier Dan Andrews has made it clear the state will not request exemptions for unvaccinated players. Tennis Australia has said repeatedly that negotiations with government over the issue are ongoing.

Ljubicic said he was certain that Federer was not thinking about hanging up his racket just yet.

"We have spoken and I can guarantee he wants to return to playing tennis," he added. "When he decides to stop he will retire, but I don`t think it`s going to happen all of a sudden."

Roger Federer is unlikely to play in next year's Australian Open but is still determined to make a return to tournament tennis at some stage, according to his coach Ivan Ljubicic.

Roger Federer is unlikely to play in next year's Australian Open but is still determined to make a return to tournament tennis at some stage, according to his coach Ivan Ljubicic. The 20-times Grand Slam champion has been inactive since losing in the Wimbledon quarter-finals in July and undergoing another round of knee surgery. Asked whether Federer would be back in action for the first major of the year in January, former world number three Ljubicic said the signs were not promising. "I think there are very few chances, he is still recovering and knowing him, he wants to be sure he can play to win the tournament and be at 100%," the Croatian told Stats Perform. ALSO READ: WTA calls on China to investigate Peng Shuai's sexual assault allegations against former Chinese vice premier "So I think the Australian Open is not a real possibility right now. But he will go step by step because he is 40 years old now and he needs to be patient. He cannot recover as quickly as he used to." Federer is tied with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic in the race to be the most successful men`s singles Grand Slam champion of all time and Australian Open organisers would have been hoping to have all three at Melbourne Park. Nadal, who has had injury issues of his own, has said he will be there, but Djokovic has declined to confirm his presence until Tennis Australia reveals the health protocols for the tournament. The Serbian world number one has not confirmed whether he has been vaccinated against COVID-19, a pre-requisite for entering Australia under current rules. The Australian government has said it will admit unvaccinated players as long as they are prepared to undergo 14 days of quarantine and the state of Victoria requests an exemption. ALSO READ: ATP Finals: Daniil Medvedev survives Hubert Hurkacz scare, Mateo Berrettini injured vs Alexander Zverev Victoria`s Premier Dan Andrews has made it clear the state will not request exemptions for unvaccinated players. Tennis Australia has said repeatedly that negotiations with government over the issue are ongoing. Ljubicic said he was certain that Federer was not thinking about hanging up his racket just yet. "We have spoken and I can guarantee he wants to return to playing tennis," he added. "When he decides to stop he will retire, but I don`t think it`s going to happen all of a sudden."

Roger Federer unlikely to play at 2022 Australian Open, says coach Ivan Ljubicic

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