In a big blow to World's no. 1 Tennis player, a 3-Judge bench unanimously rejected Novak Djokovic's appeal against deportation.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic: 'Extremely Disappointed' over losing legal battle against deportation

Australia: Federal court unanimously reject Novak Djokovic's appeal

Australia has cancelled Tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa for the second time. The World no. 1 will be moved to immigration detention in all likelihood.

Australia: Novak Djokovic detained ahead of Federal court hearing

More trouble for controversy-hit Novak Djokovic as Australia cancels his visa for the 2nd time. Meanwhile, Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas wades into the Novak Djokovic vaccination controversy. The world no. 4 tells WION's Digvijay Singh Deo that the world no. 1 is playing by his own rules.

More trouble for controversy-hit Novak Djokovic as Australia cancels his visa for the 2nd time

With Australia set to take a decision on deporting tennis star Novak Djokovic over visa row, reports claim the world No-1 is in trouble over his travel plans in Spain, Australia and his homeland Serbia.

Djokovic had admitted he had produced incorrect travel documents as he landed in Australia calling it human error as he admitted to breaking isolation rules in Serbia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-novak-djokovic-could-face-5-year-jail-term-if-found-guilty-of-lying-about-covid-positive-test-444138">Also Read:&nbsp;Djokovic could face 5-year jail term if found guilty of lying about Covid positive test</a>

Djokovic had sought vaccine exception on January 5 as he landed in Melbourne airport due to a positive PCR test result in December, however, the application was rejected and he was placed under detention. The Serbian won the case in court as it overturned the entry row allowing Djokovic to undertake practice at Melbourne Park this week.

Djokovic had reportedly attended a ceremony in Serbia after testing positive and had also attended a youth tennis event. He attended both events reportedly without a mask. However, the tennis star contended that he had received the PCR test result after attending the children's tennis event.

Watch:&nbsp;Tsitsipas speaks to WION on the Djokovic controversy

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Djokovic admitted he had given an interview to French sports daily on December 18. Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić had earlier supported Djokovic's claim for entry into Australia when he had landed at the airport as a diplomatic row broke out between Serbia and Australia over his "harassment".

"On reflection, this was an error of judgement and I accept that I should have rescheduled this commitment," Djokovic said.

Djokovic admitted to making a mistake on his Australian travel form after a box was ticked indicating that he had not travelled in the 14 days prior to arriving in Melbourne. However, reports claim he had flown to Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-court-battle-novak-djokovic-returns-to-court-everything-you-need-to-know-about-australian-open-saga-443968">Also Read:&nbsp;Everything you need to know about Djokovic's saga</a>

Djokovic blamed his support staff for the error, saying: "My agent sincerely apologises for the administrative mistake in ticking the incorrect box about my previous travel before coming to Australia."

Reports claim Djokovic reportedly flouted Spain's entry rules as the government launched an investigation.

The 34-year-old is now facing questions in Australia as immigration minister Alex Hawke indicated that Djokovic's visa could be annulled with the threat of deportation looming over the Serbian tennis player.&nbsp;

The Australian Open is set to begin next Monday.

(With inputs from Agencies)

With Australia set to take a decision on deporting tennis star Novak Djokovic over visa row, reports claim the world No-1 is in trouble over his travel plans in Spain, Australia and his homeland Serbia.

With Australia set to take a decision on deporting tennis star Novak Djokovic over visa row, reports claim the world No-1 is in trouble over his travel plans in Spain, Australia and his homeland Serbia. Djokovic had admitted he had produced incorrect travel documents as he landed in Australia calling it human error as he admitted to breaking isolation rules in Serbia. Also Read: Djokovic could face 5-year jail term if found guilty of lying about Covid positive test Djokovic had sought vaccine exception on January 5 as he landed in Melbourne airport due to a positive PCR test result in December, however, the application was rejected and he was placed under detention. The Serbian won the case in court as it overturned the entry row allowing Djokovic to undertake practice at Melbourne Park this week. Djokovic had reportedly attended a ceremony in Serbia after testing positive and had also attended a youth tennis event. He attended both events reportedly without a mask. However, the tennis star contended that he had received the PCR test result after attending the children's tennis event. Watch: Tsitsipas speaks to WION on the Djokovic controversy Djokovic admitted he had given an interview to French sports daily on December 18. Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić had earlier supported Djokovic's claim for entry into Australia when he had landed at the airport as a diplomatic row broke out between Serbia and Australia over his "harassment". "On reflection, this was an error of judgement and I accept that I should have rescheduled this commitment," Djokovic said. Djokovic admitted to making a mistake on his Australian travel form after a box was ticked indicating that he had not travelled in the 14 days prior to arriving in Melbourne. However, reports claim he had flown to Spain. Also Read: Everything you need to know about Djokovic's saga Djokovic blamed his support staff for the error, saying: "My agent sincerely apologises for the administrative mistake in ticking the incorrect box about my previous travel before coming to Australia." Reports claim Djokovic reportedly flouted Spain's entry rules as the government launched an investigation. The 34-year-old is now facing questions in Australia as immigration minister Alex Hawke indicated that Djokovic's visa could be annulled with the threat of deportation looming over the Serbian tennis player. The Australian Open is set to begin next Monday. (With inputs from Agencies)

Amid deportation threat in Australia, Djokovic faces questions in Spain, Serbia

There's been a lot of action on the tennis courts, but there's also been some action away from the tennis courts. Watch men's singles world number four and red bull athlete Stefanos Tsitsipas speak to WION on the Djokovic controversy.

Men's singles world number four Stefanos Tsitsipas speaks to WION on the Djokovic controversy

Green tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas wades into the Novak Djokovic vaccination controversy. The world no. 4 tells WION's Digvijay Singh Deo that the world no. 1 is playing by his own rules.

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas wades into the Novak Djokovic's vaccination controversy

Australia is all set to decide if it will deport Novak Djokovic after a sensational legal battle over the tennis superstar's arrival in the country without a COVID-19 vaccine.

Djokovic admits to meeting journalist after he had contracted COVID-19

An Australian court has overturned the government's bid to deport Novak Djokovic over his vaccination status. The world number one is back training on the court. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Court overturns Djokovic deportation bid

After a full week of controversy, the world's biggest tennis star Novak Djokovic is challenging the Australian government's decision to cancel his visa. The hearing of the case is currently underway and, here is a rundown of all the latest updates.

Australia: World number 1 tennis star locked in a dispute over vaccination status

It was a stunning victory for the world's biggest tennis star Novak Djokovic although in a different setting than he's used to. After a week of controversy an Australian court has overturned Novak Djokovic's deportation and ordered his immediate release from detention. Now, it's a setback to the Australian government which had revoked the visa of the tennis star over his vaccination status.

Djokovic wins Australia visa case, court orders his release from detention

After a week-long saga, the world's biggest tennis superstar Novak Djokovic has now won his appeal against being deported from Australia after the government revoked his visa as soon as he had landed in Australia last week. Now in the latest, an Australian judge has ruled in favor of Djokovic.

Australia: Novak Djokovic wins court case challenging deportation

Tennis star Novak Djokovic has been detained in a hotel after he failed to produce required papers for entry into Australia. He is being hauled up at a Melbourne immigration detention facility.

Djokovic VS Australia: Support grows for world's no. 1

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.

As the row escalated, officials said two other players who entered the country under the same exemption&nbsp;initially granted to Djokovic were under investigation. Border officials detained Djokovic at Melbourne`s airport when he arrived on Wednesday evening and revoked the visa he had been granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia`s strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

The initial decision to grant entry to Djokovic was met with outrage in Australia, a country with an adult vaccination rate of more than 90% that is battling its worst surge of coronavirus infections.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/corona-fascism-he-is-in-a-dirty-immigration-hotel-with-bugs-djokovics-mother-on-australian-detention-442789">&nbsp;'Corona fascism': He is in a dirty immigration hotel with bugs, Djokovic's mother on Australian detention</a>

The Australian government pushed back on Friday against suggestions by Serbian supporters, including Djokovic`s family, that the star player was effectively a prisoner, stressing he is free to leave the country at any time.

"Mr Djokovic is not being held captive in Australia, he is free to leave at any time that he chooses to do so and Border Force will actually facilitate that," Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told reporters.

Djokovic`s lawyers successfully scrambled for urgent legal approval for him to remain in the country until a full court hearing in his case against the federal government on Monday.

The public hearing is expected to reveal more details about the exemption granted to Djokovic and the documentation he provided to immigration officials at the border to support it.

The 34-year-old has not revealed the grounds for the exemption and has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status, while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Vaccines are not mandatory in Australia but they are required for a range of activities.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-is-the-spartacus-of-the-new-world-that-doesnt-tolerate-injustice-says-world-no-1s-father-442715">&nbsp;Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father</a>

As he was confined for a second day to his room in the modest Park Hotel, where several Afghan immigration detainees have been held for months, Djokovic`s plight was met with a mixed response from his rivals in elite tennis. 
Former World number one and two-time Australian Open champion Boris Becker said Djokovic was "making a big mistake" with his anti-vaccination stance.

"It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time," Becker wrote in an opinion piece in The Daily Mail newspaper.

Spanish champion Rafael Nadal told reporters in Melbourne he felt sorry for his rival "but at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago." However, American tennis player Tennys Sandgren sent his support. 
"Novak, stay strong, buddy," Sandgren told Reuters. "Hope you get out of there soon." Australia`s Nick Kyrgios said he believed in vaccination "but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad."

Djokovic`s wife, Jelena, posted a photo on Instagram of the couple embracing on a beach to mark Orthodox Christmas, saying "the only law that we should all respect across every single border is love and respect for another human being."

His family held an emotional news conference at his restaurant in Belgrade on Thursday before protesting in front of parliament, with his father Srdjan saying "they are stomping all over Novak to stomp all over Serbia." 
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic accused the Australian government of harassment and persecution, allegations rejected by Canberra.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-daniil-medvedev-takes-champions-russia-into-semi-finals-442703">ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals</a>

POLITICAL ROW

Some critics say Prime Minister Scott Morrison is using the issue to boost his pandemic-fighting credentials with an election looming in coming months amid record daily infections, claims the government denies. 
At Monday`s hearing, a judge will seek to unravel the complexities of Australia`s federal system, under which states and territories can issue vaccine exemptions but the federal government controls international borders and can veto those exemptions.

Djokovic had received permission to enter Victoria without a vaccination from the state government, which does not have authority to issue visas to international visitors. While the reason for his medical exemption was not officially released, The Age newspaper reported it was because he had contracted COVID-19 in the past six months. 
The Professional Tennis Players Association, a breakaway players` group launched by Djokovic in 2020, said they were in close contact with him.

"Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the group said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time."

OTHER EXEMPTIONS

Morrison said Tennis Australia had been advised weeks ago that a recent infection did not meet the criteria for exemption, even though a government task force that provides guidance on such matters had recommended that an infection in the past six months should be sufficient to qualify. 
Tennis Australia and Victoria government officials said Djokovic had received no preferential treatment, adding that he was among "a handful" of approvals for exemptions in an anonymous and independent assessment of 26 applications.

With the tournament kicking off on Jan. 17, Andrews said Australian Border Force was assessing the credentials of two others who entered the country under the same exemption granted to Djokovic.&nbsp; 
A source familiar with the matter told Reuters there was a third participant and exemptions may have been granted to other players or officials who are yet to arrive in Australia. 
Tennis Australia has not commented on the matter since Djokovic was detained.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam.

Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic spent Orthodox Christmas in Australian immigration detention on Friday as his lawyers fight a government decision to remove him from the country that could scupper his shot at a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam. As the row escalated, officials said two other players who entered the country under the same exemption initially granted to Djokovic were under investigation. Border officials detained Djokovic at Melbourne`s airport when he arrived on Wednesday evening and revoked the visa he had been granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia`s strict COVID-19 vaccination requirements. The initial decision to grant entry to Djokovic was met with outrage in Australia, a country with an adult vaccination rate of more than 90% that is battling its worst surge of coronavirus infections. Also Read | 'Corona fascism': He is in a dirty immigration hotel with bugs, Djokovic's mother on Australian detention The Australian government pushed back on Friday against suggestions by Serbian supporters, including Djokovic`s family, that the star player was effectively a prisoner, stressing he is free to leave the country at any time. "Mr Djokovic is not being held captive in Australia, he is free to leave at any time that he chooses to do so and Border Force will actually facilitate that," Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told reporters. Djokovic`s lawyers successfully scrambled for urgent legal approval for him to remain in the country until a full court hearing in his case against the federal government on Monday. The public hearing is expected to reveal more details about the exemption granted to Djokovic and the documentation he provided to immigration officials at the border to support it. The 34-year-old has not revealed the grounds for the exemption and has consistently refused to disclose his vaccination status, while publicly criticising mandatory vaccines. Vaccines are not mandatory in Australia but they are required for a range of activities. Also Read | Djokovic is the 'Spartacus of the new world' that doesn't tolerate injustice, says World No. 1's father As he was confined for a second day to his room in the modest Park Hotel, where several Afghan immigration detainees have been held for months, Djokovic`s plight was met with a mixed response from his rivals in elite tennis. Former World number one and two-time Australian Open champion Boris Becker said Djokovic was "making a big mistake" with his anti-vaccination stance. "It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time," Becker wrote in an opinion piece in The Daily Mail newspaper. Spanish champion Rafael Nadal told reporters in Melbourne he felt sorry for his rival "but at the same time, he knew the conditions since a lot of months ago." However, American tennis player Tennys Sandgren sent his support. "Novak, stay strong, buddy," Sandgren told Reuters. "Hope you get out of there soon." Australia`s Nick Kyrgios said he believed in vaccination "but how we are handling Novak`s situation is bad, really bad." Djokovic`s wife, Jelena, posted a photo on Instagram of the couple embracing on a beach to mark Orthodox Christmas, saying "the only law that we should all respect across every single border is love and respect for another human being." His family held an emotional news conference at his restaurant in Belgrade on Thursday before protesting in front of parliament, with his father Srdjan saying "they are stomping all over Novak to stomp all over Serbia." Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic accused the Australian government of harassment and persecution, allegations rejected by Canberra. Also Read | ATP Cup: Daniil Medvedev takes champions Russia into semi-finals POLITICAL ROW Some critics say Prime Minister Scott Morrison is using the issue to boost his pandemic-fighting credentials with an election looming in coming months amid record daily infections, claims the government denies. At Monday`s hearing, a judge will seek to unravel the complexities of Australia`s federal system, under which states and territories can issue vaccine exemptions but the federal government controls international borders and can veto those exemptions. Djokovic had received permission to enter Victoria without a vaccination from the state government, which does not have authority to issue visas to international visitors. While the reason for his medical exemption was not officially released, The Age newspaper reported it was because he had contracted COVID-19 in the past six months. The Professional Tennis Players Association, a breakaway players` group launched by Djokovic in 2020, said they were in close contact with him. "Djokovic has verified his well-being to us," the group said in a statement. "He has also requested that we allow him to personally share the facts of his detainment in his own words, and in his own time." OTHER EXEMPTIONS Morrison said Tennis Australia had been advised weeks ago that a recent infection did not meet the criteria for exemption, even though a government task force that provides guidance on such matters had recommended that an infection in the past six months should be sufficient to qualify. Tennis Australia and Victoria government officials said Djokovic had received no preferential treatment, adding that he was among "a handful" of approvals for exemptions in an anonymous and independent assessment of 26 applications. With the tournament kicking off on Jan. 17, Andrews said Australian Border Force was assessing the credentials of two others who entered the country under the same exemption granted to Djokovic. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters there was a third participant and exemptions may have been granted to other players or officials who are yet to arrive in Australia. Tennis Australia has not commented on the matter since Djokovic was detained.

Novak Djokovic observes Orthodox Christmas in Australian detention amid huge controversy

Serbian Tennis player Novak Djokovic's Australia entry visa has been cancelled over vaccination rules. The Tennis star won't be able to play in the Australian open unless vaccinated.

Serbian Tennis player Novak Djokovic's Australia entry visa cancelled citing vaccination rules

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

A vaccine exemption for Novak Djokovic has triggered backlash against Australian Open 2022. The world number one has been allowed to play despite being unvaccinated as India's Aman Dahiya was denied entry. Palki Sharma gets you a report

Gravitas: Djokovic's 'exemption' at Australian Open sparks outrage

Novak Djokovic will not play in the ATP Cup ahead of the Australian Open, where his participation is in doubt because he refuses to say if he has been vaccinated against Covid-19, his team have told Serbian newspaper Blic.

"It is 99 percent sure that Novak won't go to the ATP Cup. He is training here (in Belgrade) but he has decided to give that tournament a miss," an unnamed member of his team said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-time-australian-open-finalist-andy-murray-handed-wild-card-entry-439390">Five-time Australian Open finalist Andy Murray handed wild card entry</a>

The ATP Cup in Sydney is a team tournament that traditionally kicks off the men's season.

World number one Djokovic could win a record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, which starts on January 17, but to enter Australia he and members of his entourage will have to be vaccinated and the 34-year-old has previously expressed his opposition to the vaccine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/organizing-for-2022-has-been-10-times-harder-than-2021-says-australian-open-boss-craig-tiley-439225">Organizing for 2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021, says Australian Open boss Craig Tiley</a>

His father Srdjan said in late November that Djokovic would probably not play the Australian Open and accused the organisers of "blackmail".

Novak Djokovic will not play in the ATP Cup ahead of the Australian Open, where his participation is in doubt because he refuses to say if he has been vaccinated against Covid-19, his team have told Serbian newspaper Blic.

Novak Djokovic will not play in the ATP Cup ahead of the Australian Open, where his participation is in doubt because he refuses to say if he has been vaccinated against Covid-19, his team have told Serbian newspaper Blic. "It is 99 percent sure that Novak won't go to the ATP Cup. He is training here (in Belgrade) but he has decided to give that tournament a miss," an unnamed member of his team said. ALSO READ: Five-time Australian Open finalist Andy Murray handed wild card entry The ATP Cup in Sydney is a team tournament that traditionally kicks off the men's season. World number one Djokovic could win a record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, which starts on January 17, but to enter Australia he and members of his entourage will have to be vaccinated and the 34-year-old has previously expressed his opposition to the vaccine. ALSO READ: Organizing for 2022 has been 10 times harder than 2021, says Australian Open boss Craig Tiley His father Srdjan said in late November that Djokovic would probably not play the Australian Open and accused the organisers of "blackmail".

World no. 1 Novak Djokovic to miss pre-Australian Open ATP Cup tournament

Germany's Alexander Zverev came up some of the best tennis of the season in front of a cheering crowd as he defeated world No.1 Novak Djokovic of Serbia in three sets to set up a title clash with Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Nitto ATP Finals in a late Saturday night match here. 
 
Producing high-quality tennis, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist edged Djokovic 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-3 in the year-end elite tournament to raise hopes that he could finally break the jinx of not winning a major when the Australian Open commences in January next year. 
 
The German, who beat Djokovic in the 2018 season finale championship match in London, played bravely and hit with depth in the crucial moments against the Serbian, who was crowned the world No.1 for a record seventh year recently. Zverev saved a set point in the first set and closed the net effectively throughout to advance after two hours and 29 minutes in an thrilling match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-chinese-reporter-posts-video-which-shows-tennis-player-peng-shuai-having-dinner-with-her-coach-430835">Watch: Chinese reporter posts video, which shows tennis player Peng Shuai having dinner with her coach</a> 
 
The 24-year-old hit 35 winners at the Pala Alpitour and reduced his ATP head-to-head deficit with Djokovic to 4-7. 
 
"Every time we play it takes hours," Zverev said in his on-court interview. "I have not spent more time on court with anybody other than him (Djokovic) this year. I am happy with the win and happy to be in the final here and to give myself the best chance for the final," Zverev told atptour.com. 
 
With this victory, Zverev avenged his US Open semifinal loss to Djokovic. It is the second time the 18-time tour-level titlist has beaten the top seed this year, after upsetting him en route to clinching the Tokyo Olympic singles gold. 
 
Zverev, who went 2-1 in Red Group action at the Nitto ATP Finals to qualify for the last-four, will face Medvedev in the final later on Sunday after the Russian cruised past Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-2. Medvedev leads Zverev 6-5 in their ATP head-to-head, having defeated the 24-year-old in a third-set tie-break in the round-robin stage earlier this week. 
 
Zverev will now try to do what he did in 2018 when he won the title by reversing a round-robin loss to the player he`s meeting in the championship match.

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"I lost 8/6 in the third in the group stage, so I am just looking forward to the match as I think it will be a great one," Zverev said. "There is only the best here, so it takes a lot to win this tournament. 
 
"I am looking forward to having another chance and we are in the final and I am happy to be in the final. He is one of the best players in the world right now, so It is going to be a difficult match no matter what." 
 
The world No. 3 has now earned 58 tour-level wins this season. The German triumphed at ATP Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Cincinnati, while he also lifted trophies in Acapulco and Vienna.

Germany's Alexander Zverev came up some of the best tennis of the season in front of a cheering crowd as he defeated world No.1 Novak Djokovic of Serbia in three sets to set up a title clash with Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Nitto ATP Finals in a late Saturday night match here.

Germany's Alexander Zverev came up some of the best tennis of the season in front of a cheering crowd as he defeated world No.1 Novak Djokovic of Serbia in three sets to set up a title clash with Russian Daniil Medvedev at the Nitto ATP Finals in a late Saturday night match here. Producing high-quality tennis, the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist edged Djokovic 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-3 in the year-end elite tournament to raise hopes that he could finally break the jinx of not winning a major when the Australian Open commences in January next year. The German, who beat Djokovic in the 2018 season finale championship match in London, played bravely and hit with depth in the crucial moments against the Serbian, who was crowned the world No.1 for a record seventh year recently. Zverev saved a set point in the first set and closed the net effectively throughout to advance after two hours and 29 minutes in an thrilling match. ALSO READ: Watch: Chinese reporter posts video, which shows tennis player Peng Shuai having dinner with her coach The 24-year-old hit 35 winners at the Pala Alpitour and reduced his ATP head-to-head deficit with Djokovic to 4-7. "Every time we play it takes hours," Zverev said in his on-court interview. "I have not spent more time on court with anybody other than him (Djokovic) this year. I am happy with the win and happy to be in the final here and to give myself the best chance for the final," Zverev told atptour.com. With this victory, Zverev avenged his US Open semifinal loss to Djokovic. It is the second time the 18-time tour-level titlist has beaten the top seed this year, after upsetting him en route to clinching the Tokyo Olympic singles gold. Zverev, who went 2-1 in Red Group action at the Nitto ATP Finals to qualify for the last-four, will face Medvedev in the final later on Sunday after the Russian cruised past Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-2. Medvedev leads Zverev 6-5 in their ATP head-to-head, having defeated the 24-year-old in a third-set tie-break in the round-robin stage earlier this week. Zverev will now try to do what he did in 2018 when he won the title by reversing a round-robin loss to the player he`s meeting in the championship match. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic supports WTA's decision of possible pull out of China over Peng Shuai's disappearance "I lost 8/6 in the third in the group stage, so I am just looking forward to the match as I think it will be a great one," Zverev said. "There is only the best here, so it takes a lot to win this tournament. "I am looking forward to having another chance and we are in the final and I am happy to be in the final. He is one of the best players in the world right now, so It is going to be a difficult match no matter what." The world No. 3 has now earned 58 tour-level wins this season. The German triumphed at ATP Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Cincinnati, while he also lifted trophies in Acapulco and Vienna.

ATP Finals: Alexander Zverev stuns Novak Djokovic to set up title clash with Daniil Medvedev

Alexander Zverev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals where he will face world number one Novak Djokovic after a 6-2 6-4 win over Hubert Hurkacz in Turin on Thursday.

The German fired 22 winners and closed out the match in one hour and two minutes, the fastest of the tournament so far, and joins defending champion Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals from the Red Group.

The 24-year-old will face Green Group winner Djokovic on Saturday for the fifth time this year, having lost on three occasions including in the last four of the U.S. Open, but having beaten the Serb in the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics.

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"I have played Novak in every single big hard-court tournament this year," the world number three said. "We are making a habit of playing in the later rounds at big tournaments. It is going to be an entertaining one, I think."

Zverev was looking to make a statement in Turin, having won via a retirement in his first match against injured Matteo Berrettini before losing in three sets to Medvedev on Tuesday.

The 2018 champion certainly made his intentions clear in the first set against Hurkacz, breaking the Pole in the first game and racing to a 4-0 lead. It took Zverev only 27 minutes to seal the set 6-2.

However, Hurkacz was not in the mood to leave his first Finals so quickly and recovered his service game to keep the score level in the second.

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He might even have had a chance for a break point at 3-2, when Zverev put a first serve out on 40-40. However, the line judge missed it and the 24-year-old Hurkacz did not challenge.

Hurkacz then hit a number of wayward forehands to hand Zverev a crucial break to lead 5-4, from which the German served out the match to set up a clash with Djokovic who he beat in the final of the 2018 tournament.

"Today was a tough match mentally because I needed to win, so I was 100 percent focused," said Zverev.

"It was very up and down, and I am happy to be through and win in straight sets. You can always improve. The margins are always very small between the top players, but to win you have to do the details right. I hope I can do that on Saturday." 
&nbsp;

Alexander Zverev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals where he will face world number one Novak Djokovic after a 6-2 6-4 win over Hubert Hurkacz in Turin on Thursday.

Alexander Zverev booked his place in the last four of the ATP Finals where he will face world number one Novak Djokovic after a 6-2 6-4 win over Hubert Hurkacz in Turin on Thursday. The German fired 22 winners and closed out the match in one hour and two minutes, the fastest of the tournament so far, and joins defending champion Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals from the Red Group. The 24-year-old will face Green Group winner Djokovic on Saturday for the fifth time this year, having lost on three occasions including in the last four of the U.S. Open, but having beaten the Serb in the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics. ALSO READ: 'Freedom of choice': Tennis star Novak Djokovic reiterates stand on COVID-19 vaccination "I have played Novak in every single big hard-court tournament this year," the world number three said. "We are making a habit of playing in the later rounds at big tournaments. It is going to be an entertaining one, I think." Zverev was looking to make a statement in Turin, having won via a retirement in his first match against injured Matteo Berrettini before losing in three sets to Medvedev on Tuesday. The 2018 champion certainly made his intentions clear in the first set against Hurkacz, breaking the Pole in the first game and racing to a 4-0 lead. It took Zverev only 27 minutes to seal the set 6-2. However, Hurkacz was not in the mood to leave his first Finals so quickly and recovered his service game to keep the score level in the second. ALSO READ: Roger Federer is very important for our sport, says Novak Djokovic He might even have had a chance for a break point at 3-2, when Zverev put a first serve out on 40-40. However, the line judge missed it and the 24-year-old Hurkacz did not challenge. Hurkacz then hit a number of wayward forehands to hand Zverev a crucial break to lead 5-4, from which the German served out the match to set up a clash with Djokovic who he beat in the final of the 2018 tournament. "Today was a tough match mentally because I needed to win, so I was 100 percent focused," said Zverev. "It was very up and down, and I am happy to be through and win in straight sets. You can always improve. The margins are always very small between the top players, but to win you have to do the details right. I hope I can do that on Saturday."

ATP Finals: Alexander Zverev sets up semi-final clash with Novak Djokovic

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he hopes rival Roger Federer will return to competitive action soon and be able to compete with the best again after the Swiss great said he would miss the Australian Open in January.

Federer, 40, told Swiss media he is unlikely to return to competition until mid-2022 as he recovers from multiple knee surgeries and would be "extremely surprised" if he was able to play at Wimbledon, a Grand Slam he has won a record eight times.

The 20-times major champion said he would be able to resume running in January and return to training on the court in March or April.

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"Roger is an icon of our sport and people around the world love him. They love watching him play, love seeing him around," Djokovic said after securing a semi-final spot at the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev.

"He's very important for our sport on and off the court. For the sake of our sport, I sincerely hope that we can see him play at least another time. I'm sure he doesn't want to end his career this way.

"I think he's going to definitely give it a last push, a last try. For everything he has achieved and created for this sport, he deserves to play and deserves to have a proper farewell."

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Djokovic is looking to match Federer's record of six titles at the season-ending ATP Finals. He is top of the Green Group standings with two wins from two matches and will face Britain's Cameron Norrie in his final group game on Friday.

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he hopes rival Roger Federer will return to competitive action soon and be able to compete with the best again after the Swiss great said he would miss the Australian Open in January.

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he hopes rival Roger Federer will return to competitive action soon and be able to compete with the best again after the Swiss great said he would miss the Australian Open in January. Federer, 40, told Swiss media he is unlikely to return to competition until mid-2022 as he recovers from multiple knee surgeries and would be "extremely surprised" if he was able to play at Wimbledon, a Grand Slam he has won a record eight times. The 20-times major champion said he would be able to resume running in January and return to training on the court in March or April. ALSO READ: 'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful "Roger is an icon of our sport and people around the world love him. They love watching him play, love seeing him around," Djokovic said after securing a semi-final spot at the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev. "He's very important for our sport on and off the court. For the sake of our sport, I sincerely hope that we can see him play at least another time. I'm sure he doesn't want to end his career this way. "I think he's going to definitely give it a last push, a last try. For everything he has achieved and created for this sport, he deserves to play and deserves to have a proper farewell." ALSO READ: ATP Finals: 'Fresher' Novak Djokovic sets eyes on Roger Federer's record of six end-of-season titles Djokovic is looking to match Federer's record of six titles at the season-ending ATP Finals. He is top of the Green Group standings with two wins from two matches and will face Britain's Cameron Norrie in his final group game on Friday.

Roger Federer is very important for our sport, says Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury.

The ATP said that the Greek world number four had suffered a right elbow injury, something he had been carrying since retiring from the Paris Masters earlier this month, and would be replaced in Turin by British world number 12 Cameron Norrie.

Djokovic, who won his opener against Casper Ruud on Monday, looked to be in trouble from the off in his first ever match against Rublev when he was broken in the first game.

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The Serb, looking for his sixth title at the season-ending event, was given an immediate reprieve when Rublev double faulted in his own service game to bring up two break points, the second of which went for Djokovic.

The pair were on an even keel until the eighth game when Djokovic pounced on a heavy volley from Rublev and sent a winning pass beyond the Russian to claim the vital break on his way to claiming the first set.

The second was more assured from the world number one, forcing his opponent into some costly errors that helped bring up Djokovic's 40th win at the ATP Finals in 68 minutes, sealed with an ace.

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The 34-year-old and 20-times Grand Slam winner tops the Green Group standings with two wins from two and is assured of a place in the last-four.

Norrie will make his debut in the tournament later on Wednesday against Norway's Ruud.

Norrie is the second alternate drafted in following Italian Matteo Berrettini`s withdrawal on Tuesday with compatriot Jannick Sinner taking his place.

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury.

Novak Djokovic claimed a spot in the last four of the ATP Finals with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday, while Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the tournament due to an elbow injury. The ATP said that the Greek world number four had suffered a right elbow injury, something he had been carrying since retiring from the Paris Masters earlier this month, and would be replaced in Turin by British world number 12 Cameron Norrie. Djokovic, who won his opener against Casper Ruud on Monday, looked to be in trouble from the off in his first ever match against Rublev when he was broken in the first game. ALSO READ: 'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful The Serb, looking for his sixth title at the season-ending event, was given an immediate reprieve when Rublev double faulted in his own service game to bring up two break points, the second of which went for Djokovic. The pair were on an even keel until the eighth game when Djokovic pounced on a heavy volley from Rublev and sent a winning pass beyond the Russian to claim the vital break on his way to claiming the first set. The second was more assured from the world number one, forcing his opponent into some costly errors that helped bring up Djokovic's 40th win at the ATP Finals in 68 minutes, sealed with an ace. ALSO READ | Chinese star Peng Shuai's safety comes ahead of business, assures former WTA CEO Stacey Allaster The 34-year-old and 20-times Grand Slam winner tops the Green Group standings with two wins from two and is assured of a place in the last-four. Norrie will make his debut in the tournament later on Wednesday against Norway's Ruud. Norrie is the second alternate drafted in following Italian Matteo Berrettini`s withdrawal on Tuesday with compatriot Jannick Sinner taking his place.

ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic clinches semi-final spot with Andrey Rublev win

Novak Djokovic on Monday defeated eight seed Casper Ruud by 7-6(4), 6-2 in Turin to start his bid for a record-equalling sixth ATP Finals title on a winning note.

In the Green Group action, the top seed took an early tumble at the Pala Alpitour but recovered as he rallied from a breakdown in the first set, finding his rhythm from the baseline to fire 22 winners to secure victory after one hour and 33 minutes.

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After the match, the Serbian was presented with the year-end ATP Tour No. 1 trophy.

This is the seventh time Djokovic has earned the honour, passing Pete Sampras for the most year-end No. 1 finishes in the history of the ATP Rankings (since 1973). Djokovic has also achieved the feat in 2011-12, `14-15, `18, and `20.

Djokovic, who is looking to equal Roger Federer`s record of six end-of-season titles came to Turin after clinching the 86th tour-level title of his career in Paris.

The 20 times Grand Slam champion has compiled a 48-6 match record this season, including five tour-level titles. He went 27-1 in major championships, with titles at the Australian Open (d. Medvedev), Roland Garros (d. Tsitsipas), and Wimbledon (d. Berrettini).

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Daniil Medvedev stopped the 34-year-old in the US Open final from becoming the first player to complete the Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Monday defeated eight seed Casper Ruud by 7-6(4), 6-2 in Turin to start his bid for a record-equalling sixth ATP Finals title on a winning note.

Novak Djokovic on Monday defeated eight seed Casper Ruud by 7-6(4), 6-2 in Turin to start his bid for a record-equalling sixth ATP Finals title on a winning note. In the Green Group action, the top seed took an early tumble at the Pala Alpitour but recovered as he rallied from a breakdown in the first set, finding his rhythm from the baseline to fire 22 winners to secure victory after one hour and 33 minutes. ALSO READ: WTA calls on China to investigate Peng Shuai's sexual assault allegations against former Chinese vice premier After the match, the Serbian was presented with the year-end ATP Tour No. 1 trophy. This is the seventh time Djokovic has earned the honour, passing Pete Sampras for the most year-end No. 1 finishes in the history of the ATP Rankings (since 1973). Djokovic has also achieved the feat in 2011-12, `14-15, `18, and `20. Djokovic, who is looking to equal Roger Federer`s record of six end-of-season titles came to Turin after clinching the 86th tour-level title of his career in Paris. The 20 times Grand Slam champion has compiled a 48-6 match record this season, including five tour-level titles. He went 27-1 in major championships, with titles at the Australian Open (d. Medvedev), Roland Garros (d. Tsitsipas), and Wimbledon (d. Berrettini). ALSO READ: Roger Federer unlikely to play at 2022 Australian Open, says coach Ivan Ljubicic Daniil Medvedev stopped the 34-year-old in the US Open final from becoming the first player to complete the Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

ATP Finals: Top seed Novak Djokovic starts bid for 6th title with win against eighth seed Casper Ruud

The world number one Novak Djokovic is looking for a grand finish to a historic 2021 season, which saw him come within one match short of a Grand Slam.

The Serbian who clinched the year-end number one in the ATP Rankings for a record-breaking seventh time will be next seen in the 2021 ATP Finals Turin.

Djokovic, who is looking to equal Roger Federer`s record of six end-of-season titles, will begin his ATP Finals on Monday against eighth seed Casper Ruud. He is coming to Turin after clinching the 86th tour-level title of his career in Paris. The top-seed is feeling fresher than in previous years, which may spell trouble for his rivals at the Pala Alpitour.

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"I do feel fresher, because I haven`t played as much as in previous years, in terms of tournaments," said Djokovic on Friday, ahead of the ATP Finals` start on Sunday, as per nittoatpfinals.com.

"I did have a lot of exhausting events, particularly in the Grand Slams, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally."

"[This year has been] unlike any other than I have had so far, because of the pressure of the achievement and the historical achievement. It did take a lot out of me.

I felt like I needed a break in order to rejuvenate and get ready for the end of the season," he added.

Djokovic was drawn with Tsitsipas, Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud in his group at the November 14-21 tournament in Turin.

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Djokovic has compiled a 48-6 match record this season, including five tour-level titles.

He went 27-1 in major championships, with titles at the Australian Open (d. Medvedev), Roland Garros (d. Tsitsipas) and Wimbledon (d. Berrettini).

Daniil Medvedev stopped the 34-year-old in the US Open final from becoming the first player to complete the Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

The world number one Novak Djokovic is looking for a grand finish to a historic 2021 season, which saw him come within one match short of a Grand Slam. The Serbian who clinched the year-end number one in the ATP Rankings for a record-breaking seventh time will be next seen in the 2021 ATP Finals Turin.

The world number one Novak Djokovic is looking for a grand finish to a historic 2021 season, which saw him come within one match short of a Grand Slam. The Serbian who clinched the year-end number one in the ATP Rankings for a record-breaking seventh time will be next seen in the 2021 ATP Finals Turin. Djokovic, who is looking to equal Roger Federer`s record of six end-of-season titles, will begin his ATP Finals on Monday against eighth seed Casper Ruud. He is coming to Turin after clinching the 86th tour-level title of his career in Paris. The top-seed is feeling fresher than in previous years, which may spell trouble for his rivals at the Pala Alpitour. ALSO READ: Stefanos Tsitsipas' recovery on track after arm injury "I do feel fresher, because I haven`t played as much as in previous years, in terms of tournaments," said Djokovic on Friday, ahead of the ATP Finals` start on Sunday, as per nittoatpfinals.com. "I did have a lot of exhausting events, particularly in the Grand Slams, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally." "[This year has been] unlike any other than I have had so far, because of the pressure of the achievement and the historical achievement. It did take a lot out of me. I felt like I needed a break in order to rejuvenate and get ready for the end of the season," he added. Djokovic was drawn with Tsitsipas, Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud in his group at the November 14-21 tournament in Turin. ALSO READ | Daniil Medvedev says double triumph late last year at Paris Masters and ATP Finals laid platform for rise Djokovic has compiled a 48-6 match record this season, including five tour-level titles. He went 27-1 in major championships, with titles at the Australian Open (d. Medvedev), Roland Garros (d. Tsitsipas) and Wimbledon (d. Berrettini). Daniil Medvedev stopped the 34-year-old in the US Open final from becoming the first player to complete the Grand Slam since Rod Laver in 1969.

ATP Finals: 'Fresher' Novak Djokovic sets eyes on Roger Federer's record of six end-of-season titles

Novak Djokovic will not be able to enter Australia to defend his Australian Open title unless he is fully vaccinated for COVID-19, the country's immigration minister said on Wednesday, putting the Serb`s Grand Slam record bid in doubt.

World number one Djokovic, who is level with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal on 20 Grand Slam titles, has declined to reveal his vaccination status, and said he is unsure if he will defend his Australian Open crown.

Clarifying Australia`s visa requirements, Minister for Immigration Alex Hawke said foreign players would need to have had two vaccination shots to play the Grand Slam at Melbourne Park in January.

"You’ll need to be double vaccinated to visit Australia. That’s a universal application, not just to tennis players. I mean that every visitor to Australia will need to be double vaccinated,” Hawke told Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio.

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"I don’t have a message to Novak. I have a message to everybody that wishes to visit Australia. He’ll need to be double vaccinated."

Apart from Serbian Djokovic, who has won nine of his Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and the last three in succession at Melbourne Park, the rule could exclude scores of players from the tournament.

More than a third of professional players remain unvaccinated, according to recent media reports.

Both the men`s ATP and women`s WTA tours have urged players to get vaccinated but some have voiced reservations.

Russian men`s U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev and German world number four Alex Zverev have expressed scepticism, although their vaccination status remains unknown.

Greek world number three Stefanos Tsitsipas said in August he would only get vaccinated if it became mandatory, though later said he planned to have shots by the end of the year.

Tennis Australia, which organises the Grand Slam, said it was working with authorities on conditions for players, fans and tournament staff.

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"Our understanding is that the details around international visitors entering the country are yet to be decided and we hope to have more information soon," the governing body said.

Australia`s health minister Greg Hunt said the country`s rules were about protecting Australians.

"They apply to everyone without fear or favour. It doesn`t matter whether you are number one in the world or you are anything else," he told a media conference on Wednesday.

Australia has shut its international borders to non-citizens and non-permanent residents for 18 months, though there have been some high-profile exceptions.

International travel is expected to begin for Australian citizens within weeks, but non-citizens are expected to be shut out until early-2022.

Authorities in Victoria state, which hosts the Australian Open, said they would not make special deals with unvaccinated athletes to allow them to compete even if they secured visas.

Melbourne, Australia`s second largest city, has been locked down since August due to an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta variant but will begin to open up on Friday, when 70% of the adult population in Victoria is expected to be fully vaccinated. 
&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic will not be able to enter Australia to defend his Australian Open title unless he is fully vaccinated for COVID-19, the country's immigration minister said on Wednesday, putting the Serb`s Grand Slam record bid in doubt.

Novak Djokovic will not be able to enter Australia to defend his Australian Open title unless he is fully vaccinated for COVID-19, the country's immigration minister said on Wednesday, putting the Serb`s Grand Slam record bid in doubt. World number one Djokovic, who is level with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal on 20 Grand Slam titles, has declined to reveal his vaccination status, and said he is unsure if he will defend his Australian Open crown. Clarifying Australia`s visa requirements, Minister for Immigration Alex Hawke said foreign players would need to have had two vaccination shots to play the Grand Slam at Melbourne Park in January. "You’ll need to be double vaccinated to visit Australia. That’s a universal application, not just to tennis players. I mean that every visitor to Australia will need to be double vaccinated,” Hawke told Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Paula Badosa ousts Victoria Azarenka in epic final to claim Indian Wells title "I don’t have a message to Novak. I have a message to everybody that wishes to visit Australia. He’ll need to be double vaccinated." Apart from Serbian Djokovic, who has won nine of his Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and the last three in succession at Melbourne Park, the rule could exclude scores of players from the tournament. More than a third of professional players remain unvaccinated, according to recent media reports. Both the men`s ATP and women`s WTA tours have urged players to get vaccinated but some have voiced reservations. Russian men`s U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev and German world number four Alex Zverev have expressed scepticism, although their vaccination status remains unknown. Greek world number three Stefanos Tsitsipas said in August he would only get vaccinated if it became mandatory, though later said he planned to have shots by the end of the year. Tennis Australia, which organises the Grand Slam, said it was working with authorities on conditions for players, fans and tournament staff. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: British breakthrough as Cameron Norrie wins Indian Wells title "Our understanding is that the details around international visitors entering the country are yet to be decided and we hope to have more information soon," the governing body said. Australia`s health minister Greg Hunt said the country`s rules were about protecting Australians. "They apply to everyone without fear or favour. It doesn`t matter whether you are number one in the world or you are anything else," he told a media conference on Wednesday. Australia has shut its international borders to non-citizens and non-permanent residents for 18 months, though there have been some high-profile exceptions. International travel is expected to begin for Australian citizens within weeks, but non-citizens are expected to be shut out until early-2022. Authorities in Victoria state, which hosts the Australian Open, said they would not make special deals with unvaccinated athletes to allow them to compete even if they secured visas. Melbourne, Australia`s second largest city, has been locked down since August due to an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta variant but will begin to open up on Friday, when 70% of the adult population in Victoria is expected to be fully vaccinated.

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic will need to be vaccinated to play, says Aussie immigration minister

After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam. 
 
Following first-ever meetings with Denmark`s Holger Rune and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, Djokovic faced a seasoned campaigner in Nishikori, who was runner-up at the 2014 U.S. Open having beaten the Serb to move into that year`s final. 
 
Since then it has been one-way traffic in the rivalry with Djokovic sweeping 17 straight contests against the Japanese player, improving his head-to-head record to 18-2. 
 
But after Nishikori`s 6-2 6-0 quarter-final thumping at the hands of the world No. 1 at the Tokyo Olympics, the 31-year-old made Djokovic sweat for his victory. 
 
"So far the toughest match of the tournament for me," said Djokovic. "The opening two rounds obviously felt well, played good. 
 
"But the pace of the ball and the speed of Nishikori`s tennis today was just higher than the opening two rounds` opponents that I had." 
 
Usually the headliner under the Arthur Ashe Stadium lights, Djokovic made a matinee appearance on Saturday and appeared unsettled by the conditions as he went to work under a blazing sun. 
 
For the first time this week New York fans, who have not always embraced Djokovic, got behind the history-hunting Serb, showering him with cheers that had largely gone to his opponents. 
 
While Djokovic did not need the fans to get through the opening week, he knows the path gets harder and at some point will most likely need the energy the crowd can bring to get him through a rough patch. 
 
"Arthur Ashe is the place where you bring the energy," said Djokovic. "That`s where you feel this kind of electric atmosphere, particularly in the matches like this where it`s decided in a few points. 
 
"Yeah, the crowd was involved. It was loud. It was nice. I thrived on that." 
 
A tight opening set was snatched by Nishikori in a tiebreak before Djokovic began to settle into the contest, breaking the Japanese player twice in the second on his way to leveling the match at a set apiece. 
 
In another workmanlike effort, the top seed took the decisive break in the third to go ahead 5-3, then held serve for a 2-1 lead. 
 
Now in control, Djokovic would leave Nishikori no openings to hope for a comeback, storming through the last four games of the fourth set to close out the contest in style. 
 
Djokovic now awaits the winner of the match between U.S. wildcard Jenson Brooksby and Russian Aslan Karatsev. 
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After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam.

After tackling two U.S. Open debutants, Novak Djokovic faced an old foe on Saturday, reaching the fourth round with a 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Kei Nishikori to stay on course for a record 21st major title that would complete the calendar Grand Slam. Following first-ever meetings with Denmark`s Holger Rune and Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, Djokovic faced a seasoned campaigner in Nishikori, who was runner-up at the 2014 U.S. Open having beaten the Serb to move into that year`s final. Since then it has been one-way traffic in the rivalry with Djokovic sweeping 17 straight contests against the Japanese player, improving his head-to-head record to 18-2. But after Nishikori`s 6-2 6-0 quarter-final thumping at the hands of the world No. 1 at the Tokyo Olympics, the 31-year-old made Djokovic sweat for his victory. "So far the toughest match of the tournament for me," said Djokovic. "The opening two rounds obviously felt well, played good. "But the pace of the ball and the speed of Nishikori`s tennis today was just higher than the opening two rounds` opponents that I had." Usually the headliner under the Arthur Ashe Stadium lights, Djokovic made a matinee appearance on Saturday and appeared unsettled by the conditions as he went to work under a blazing sun. For the first time this week New York fans, who have not always embraced Djokovic, got behind the history-hunting Serb, showering him with cheers that had largely gone to his opponents. While Djokovic did not need the fans to get through the opening week, he knows the path gets harder and at some point will most likely need the energy the crowd can bring to get him through a rough patch. "Arthur Ashe is the place where you bring the energy," said Djokovic. "That`s where you feel this kind of electric atmosphere, particularly in the matches like this where it`s decided in a few points. "Yeah, the crowd was involved. It was loud. It was nice. I thrived on that." A tight opening set was snatched by Nishikori in a tiebreak before Djokovic began to settle into the contest, breaking the Japanese player twice in the second on his way to leveling the match at a set apiece. In another workmanlike effort, the top seed took the decisive break in the third to go ahead 5-3, then held serve for a 2-1 lead. Now in control, Djokovic would leave Nishikori no openings to hope for a comeback, storming through the last four games of the fourth set to close out the contest in style. Djokovic now awaits the winner of the match between U.S. wildcard Jenson Brooksby and Russian Aslan Karatsev.

US Open: Novak Djokovic dispatches old rival Nishikori to reach fourth round

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open.&nbsp;

The World No. 1 eased past Griekspoor (6-2 6-3 6-2) to progress into the third round. However, the Dutch was not the biggest challenge for Djokovic in the second round, it was actually a fan who kept yelling and shouting during crucial moments of the match.&nbsp;

Djokovic eventually spoke to the umpire about the fan and his disturbance.&nbsp;

He said: “When tennis players talk about that, someone who is watching team sports would say, ‘What a spoiled brat’.

“But it’s a different sport. Look, there’s a lot of noise happening on the stadium, particularly in the night sessions. I don’t mind that.

“Even sometimes during the point it happens that people out of excitement, they just scream or they release like a sound or whatever, sigh, whatever you call it. And that’s fine.

“But if someone intentionally does it over and over again, then I have tolerance up to a certain point, then it’s not correct, then it’s not fine. It’s not fair. I feel like it’s not good for us players.”

“I mean, particularly that guy for some reason was calling, raising the sound and kind of screaming just before I would hit my smash, which was a big point. Before that he would do a few times. After that again.

“That wasn’t nice. That’s all. I don’t mind the noise. Don’t get me wrong. I think it’s important for the entertainment, for the crowds, the music.

“I get it. But if someone does it over and over again, particularly when you are at his side, he knows why he’s doing it. The guy that I pointed out, he knew exactly what he was doing, and that’s all.”

Novak Djokovic will now face Kei Nishikori in the next round of the US Open. He will be looking to beat Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to become the 21-time Grand Slam champion.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Friday said that he isn't a "spoiled brat" after he complained after a fan heckling during his second-round match against Tallon Griekspoor of the US Open. The World No. 1 eased past Griekspoor (6-2 6-3 6-2) to progress into the third round. However, the Dutch was not the biggest challenge for Djokovic in the second round, it was actually a fan who kept yelling and shouting during crucial moments of the match. Djokovic eventually spoke to the umpire about the fan and his disturbance. He said: “When tennis players talk about that, someone who is watching team sports would say, ‘What a spoiled brat’. “But it’s a different sport. Look, there’s a lot of noise happening on the stadium, particularly in the night sessions. I don’t mind that. “Even sometimes during the point it happens that people out of excitement, they just scream or they release like a sound or whatever, sigh, whatever you call it. And that’s fine. “But if someone intentionally does it over and over again, then I have tolerance up to a certain point, then it’s not correct, then it’s not fine. It’s not fair. I feel like it’s not good for us players.” “I mean, particularly that guy for some reason was calling, raising the sound and kind of screaming just before I would hit my smash, which was a big point. Before that he would do a few times. After that again. “That wasn’t nice. That’s all. I don’t mind the noise. Don’t get me wrong. I think it’s important for the entertainment, for the crowds, the music. “I get it. But if someone does it over and over again, particularly when you are at his side, he knows why he’s doing it. The guy that I pointed out, he knew exactly what he was doing, and that’s all.” Novak Djokovic will now face Kei Nishikori in the next round of the US Open. He will be looking to beat Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to become the 21-time Grand Slam champion.

'I have tolerance up to a certain point': Novak Djokovic after being heckled during US Open

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

After losing to Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, the Serb was beaten by Spain's Carreno Busta 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 in the bronze medal match.&nbsp;

During the game, Djokovic was spotted banging his racket against the net and throwing it into the stands.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> acaba de hacer esto y saben qué le hicieron? 
 
Nada. Absolutamente nada. Ni siquiera una advertencia. <a href="https://t.co/o7PxUvxFaS">pic.twitter.com/o7PxUvxFaS</a>
— Alejandro Romero (@aljorp18) <a href="https://twitter.com/aljorp18/status/1421385508945530881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The footage of the event has gone viral on the internet, with many people expressing their displeasure with the renowned Serb's on-court behaviour.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoOlympics2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoOlympics2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/rtg394SZ8q">pic.twitter.com/rtg394SZ8q</a>
— Sportzhustle_Squad (@sportzhustle) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportzhustle/status/1421389721435992068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The 34-year-sole old's Olympic medal came in the men's singles event in Beijing in 2008, but his incredible success this season – which included victories at the first three Grand Slams of the year – put him on track for gold in Tokyo and maybe another US Open title.&nbsp;

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Wow! 
 
An amazing performance from Pablo Carreno Busta sees him defeat Novak Djokovic and win the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bronze?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bronze</a> medal!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ITFTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ITFTennis</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/f429sxcMHK">pic.twitter.com/f429sxcMHK</a>
— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1421394388178067456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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If Djokovic had won each of those awards in a row, he would have completed an incredible Golden Slam, but that goal is now firmly out of reach.&nbsp;

For Djokovic and his followers who were expecting a gold medal, this is a sad setback.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Despite all the excitement and expectation around him perhaps attempting a Golden Slam this season, world number one Novak Djokovic was left without a medal following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. After losing to Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, the Serb was beaten by Spain's Carreno Busta 6-4, 7-6, 6-3 in the bronze medal match. During the game, Djokovic was spotted banging his racket against the net and throwing it into the stands. @DjokerNole acaba de hacer esto y saben qué le hicieron? Nada. Absolutamente nada. Ni siquiera una advertencia. pic.twitter.com/o7PxUvxFaS — Alejandro Romero (@aljorp18) July 31, 2021 × The footage of the event has gone viral on the internet, with many people expressing their displeasure with the renowned Serb's on-court behaviour. #TokyoOlympics2020 pic.twitter.com/rtg394SZ8q — Sportzhustle_Squad (@sportzhustle) July 31, 2021 × The 34-year-sole old's Olympic medal came in the men's singles event in Beijing in 2008, but his incredible success this season – which included victories at the first three Grand Slams of the year – put him on track for gold in Tokyo and maybe another US Open title. Wow! An amazing performance from Pablo Carreno Busta sees him defeat Novak Djokovic and win the #bronze medal!#StrongerTogether | #Tokyo2020 | @ITFTennis | #Tennis pic.twitter.com/f429sxcMHK — Olympics (@Olympics) July 31, 2021 × If Djokovic had won each of those awards in a row, he would have completed an incredible Golden Slam, but that goal is now firmly out of reach. For Djokovic and his followers who were expecting a gold medal, this is a sad setback. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Tokyo 2020 Olympics — Novak Djokovic smashes racket during bronze medal match

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades.

The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021.

Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second.

But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider.

Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000.

He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday.

Novak Djokovic hopes of becoming the first man to complete the Golden Slam were dashed on Friday after he was unexpectedly beaten by Germany's Alexander Zverev in the singles semi-finals at the Tokyo Games on Friday. The Serbian's 1-6 6-3 6-1 defeat also ended his dream of winning an Olympic singles gold medal, the only major honour missing from his long list of accolades. The world number one had arrived in Tokyo gunning for the Golden Slam -- winning all four majors and Olympic gold in the same year -- after triumphing at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2021. Djokovic, who won singles bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, appeared to be on course for an easy victory on Friday when he claimed the opening set for the loss of just one game and then went up a break midway through the second. But world number five Zverev managed to find another gear, breaking back and reeling off eight games in a row to take the set and take a commanding lead in the decider. Zverev sealed the victory with a winner to become the first German man to make an Olympic tennis final since Tommy Haas won silver at the Sydney Games in 2000. He will play Karen Khachanov of the Russian Olympic Committee in the championship match.

Tokyo Olympics, Tennis: Djokovic's Golden Slam dreams dashed by Zverev

World number one Novak Djokovic confirmed he will compete at the Tokyo Olympics as the Serb remains on course to achieve the Golden Slam in tennis.

Djokovic completed the third leg towards achieving the Golden Slam last weekend when he added the Wimbledon title to his Australian Open and Roland Garros triumphs in 2021.

No man has ever won the four slams and Olympic gold in the same year, with Germany's Steffi Graf the only player to accomplish the feat in 1988.

After winning at Wimbledon, Djokovic said he was "50-50" about competing at the July 23-Aug. 8 Games following the organisers' decision to ban fans from attending and the restrictions on the number of people he can take to the Games.

But the 34-year-old said on Thursday he had booked his flight for Tokyo.

"I am very proud to pack for Tokyo and join our national team in the fight for the brightest medals on the Olympic arenas," Djokovic, who won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Games, tweeted.

"For me, the game for Serbia has always been a special joy and motivation and I will do my best to make us all happy! Let's go."

Some of the sport's biggest names, including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka and Simona Halep have already announced their decision to skip the Games, which has been delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

World number one Novak Djokovic confirmed he will compete at the Tokyo Olympics as the Serb remains on course to achieve the Golden Slam in tennis. Djokovic completed the third leg towards achieving the Golden Slam last weekend when he added the Wimbledon title to his Australian Open and Roland Garros triumphs in 2021.

World number one Novak Djokovic confirmed he will compete at the Tokyo Olympics as the Serb remains on course to achieve the Golden Slam in tennis. Djokovic completed the third leg towards achieving the Golden Slam last weekend when he added the Wimbledon title to his Australian Open and Roland Garros triumphs in 2021. No man has ever won the four slams and Olympic gold in the same year, with Germany's Steffi Graf the only player to accomplish the feat in 1988. After winning at Wimbledon, Djokovic said he was "50-50" about competing at the July 23-Aug. 8 Games following the organisers' decision to ban fans from attending and the restrictions on the number of people he can take to the Games. But the 34-year-old said on Thursday he had booked his flight for Tokyo. "I am very proud to pack for Tokyo and join our national team in the fight for the brightest medals on the Olympic arenas," Djokovic, who won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Games, tweeted. "For me, the game for Serbia has always been a special joy and motivation and I will do my best to make us all happy! Let's go." Some of the sport's biggest names, including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Serena Williams, Stan Wawrinka and Simona Halep have already announced their decision to skip the Games, which has been delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Olympics: Tennis star Novak Djokovic confirms he will compete at Tokyo Games

Serbian ace and world number one Novak Djokovic has equalled Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal with 20 Grand Slams to his&nbsp;name after beating Italian tennis player Matteo Berrettini in the finals of the Wimbledon 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-samir-banerjee-wins-wimbledon-junior-mens-title-overpowers-victor-lilov-in-final-397442" hreflang="en">Tennis: Samir Banerjee wins Wimbledon Junior Men's title, overpowers Victor Lilov in final</a>

Novak kicked off the match with a dominating win over the Italian by taking a lead of 4-1 in the first set. However, Berrettini staged a heroic comeback and won the set 7-6 taking an edge over Djokovic.&nbsp;

The Serb did not lose his confidence and bounced back with back to back set victory(6-4, 6-4).&nbsp;

Berrettini started the fourth set strong and it was likely that the match will go on to the fifth set. However, Djokovic, with his own comeback, came from behind to beat the Italian 6-4.&nbsp;

<h2>FINAL SCORE:</h2>

Novak Djokovic vs Matteo Berrettini: 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4

With this win, Novak Djokovic successfully defended his Wimbledon title and lifted the coveted trophy for the sixth time. This is also Novak Djokovic's Golden Grand Slam as the Serbian ace has already won the Australian Open and the Roland Garros earlier this year. He has continued his form from last year and has won numerous Grand Slams in recent years.&nbsp;

Serbian ace and world number one Novak Djokovic has equalled Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal with 20 Grand Slams to his name after beating Italian tennis player Matteo Berrettini in the finals of the Wimbledon 2021.

Serbian ace and world number one Novak Djokovic has equalled Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal with 20 Grand Slams to his name after beating Italian tennis player Matteo Berrettini in the finals of the Wimbledon 2021. ALSO READ: Tennis: Samir Banerjee wins Wimbledon Junior Men's title, overpowers Victor Lilov in final Novak kicked off the match with a dominating win over the Italian by taking a lead of 4-1 in the first set. However, Berrettini staged a heroic comeback and won the set 7-6 taking an edge over Djokovic. The Serb did not lose his confidence and bounced back with back to back set victory(6-4, 6-4). Berrettini started the fourth set strong and it was likely that the match will go on to the fifth set. However, Djokovic, with his own comeback, came from behind to beat the Italian 6-4. FINAL SCORE: Novak Djokovic vs Matteo Berrettini: 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 With this win, Novak Djokovic successfully defended his Wimbledon title and lifted the coveted trophy for the sixth time. This is also Novak Djokovic's Golden Grand Slam as the Serbian ace has already won the Australian Open and the Roland Garros earlier this year. He has continued his form from last year and has won numerous Grand Slams in recent years.

Wimbledon 2021: Novak Djokovic wins 20th Grand Slam after beating Matteo Berrettini

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