‘A Political Pawn’: Mardy Fish Calls Out Novak Djokovic Controversy Ridiculous, Urges Sympathy

There is no shortage of opinions about what is going on with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic. From his medical exemption to detention and visa-cancellation, Djokovic is surely the talk of the tennis fraternity.

In fact, even his fellow players on the tour, as well as retired stars, have pitched in their two cents about the issue. Now, 6-time ATP title winner and hardcourt specialist Mardy Fish has called out the situation for its ridiculousness.

Mardy Fish reminds Twitter that Novak Djokovic is a human being

American former player Mardy Fish has taken to Twitter to call out just how ludicrous the situation in Australia is. Fish claimed that Novak Djokovic has been used as a “political pawn”.

Mardy Fish, in a tweet, acknowledged that he jokes around a lot. However, things are certainly serious, and so was his tone, when he stated that “what’s going on with @DjokerNole right now seems ridiculous.”

Furthermore, he stated that the authorities involved are, “using him (Djokovic) as a political pawn”. Then, he got ahead of the flak he knew he would draw, by asking people to abstain from making it a discussion about the Serbian’s vaccination status.

Finally, he reminded people of what many seem to have forgotten in the midst of all the controversy, saying “dude is a human being”. Fish has, for a while now, been extremely vocal about the importance of mental health of professional athletes. And it seems like he’s concerned for Djokovic’s well-being too.

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Moreover, the reigning Australian Open champion’s troubles are far from over, as he now faces more legal trouble, and looks all set to miss out on the Australian Open next week.

Djokovic could face a 3-year Australia ban

After a Federal judge ruled in Novak Djokovic’s favor and ordered the Australian government to repeal their cancellation of his visa, things seemed to be going in the Serbian’s favor.

However, things took another turn for the worse when Alex Hawke, the minister for immigration, canceled Djokovic’s visa again. Moreover, this time, it came with a potential 3-year ban for the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

Nevertheless, Djokovic’s legal team has appealed against the same, which has stayed the deportation for the time being. However, it sure looks like whatever the outcome may be, the 9-time Australian Open champion might not be able to defend his title this year.

What are your thoughts on this debacle in Melbourne? Let us know in the comments below.

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