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Australian Open: Controversy over unvaccinated Djokovic
The Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has now landed in Australia. The authorities have not yet allowed him to enter the country. His plan to take part in the Australian Open as an unvaccinated person thanks to an exemption is pending – and meets with incomprehension among the citizens of the Melbourne venue. “I think it’s a shame. We all did the right thing, got our vaccinations and boosters. And now there is someone who comes from abroad and can suddenly do whatever he wants. I’m going to watch the Australian Open not look at. ” “I’m a Melbourne boy, but I don’t live here anymore. I can understand the hostility and aggression towards him. I even believe he will be booed when he comes on the field.” “We just moved from the US and had to sit out a two-week quarantine in Sydney. I support the Australian Open and the money it brings the city, but I really don’t agree that there are rules for some other than that for the others.” Politicians are also concerned with the dispute over permission. Prime Minister Scott Morrison: “If Novak Djokovic arrives in Australia and he is not vaccinated, he must provide acceptable evidence that he cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons in order to benefit from the same travel arrangements as fully vaccinated people. So we are waiting on what he shows. If the evidence is inadequate, he will be treated no differently than anyone else and he will be on the next plane home. ” Djokovic does not want to reveal his vaccination status. The Australian Tennis Association and the state of Victoria had initially stated that Djokovic had successfully submitted an application for an exemption from the compulsory vaccination. Therefore, the 34-year-old set out on Tuesday. On Twitter he wrote: “Happy New Year everyone! I wish you health, love and happiness, may you feel love and respect for all beings on this planet. I had a fantastic time over the holidays and I drive today with a special permit to Down Under. Let’s go, 2022! ” If his application is rejected, the chances for the German title contender Alexander Zverev automatically increase. The 24-year-old from Hamburg is in good shape and currently third in the world rankings.
The Serbian tennis star wants to take part in the Australian Open in Melbourne with a special permit. Prime Minister Scott Morrison took a clear position.