Novak Djokovic has barely stepped onto the tennis courts this season. The Serbian tennis superstar has been making the headlines ever since he has set his foot in Australia. The 34-year-old’s visa was canceled and he was subsequently detained at Melbourne airport. Further, the reason cited by the border officials was his inability to provide appropriate evidence to receive a vaccine exemption.
Amidst this saga, he has constantly received the backing of his family members. Moreover, his fans have been taking to the streets to express their views on this matter. The entire episode drew widespread criticism for the way it was handled. Well-known celebrities across the globe are having their say on this narrative. Further, the tennis fraternity has been divided in their opinions for and against the Serb. The latest player to talk about this is World Number 2, Daniil Medvedev.
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Daniil Medvedev on the Novak Djokovic visa saga
Daniil Medvedev has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding the Serb. He said, “I want to say about Novak’s situation that we’re in Australia, it’s their rules. But from what I know, again, if he has a valid exemption to be in this country and to do what he wants, then he should play. If the exemption is not valid, or something else is not valid, well, any country can deny your entry.”
Further, the 25-year-old Russian went on to add, “I know yesterday the Prime Minister, let’s say, said no. I didn’t really read anywhere why. That’s what interests me to know, the reason. Is it just he said, I don’t want? Is there a real legal reason behind this?” Further, he feels that these questions would clear out tomorrow at the appeal.
#Medvedev on #Djokovic: But from what I know, again, if he has a valid exemption to be in this country and to do what he wants, then he should play. If the exemption is not valid or something else is not valid, well, any country can deny your entry. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/BseRnVtJTx
— Saša Ozmo (@ozmo_sasa) January 15, 2022
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Daniil Medvedev’s chances at Australian Open 2022
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The second-seeded Russian is one of the favorites to lift this year’s Australian Open title amid the uncertainty surrounding Novak Djokovic’s participation. However, standing in his path would be 20-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, who is in fine form. Medvedev will face Swiss Henri Laaksonen in the first round. Can Medvedev claim his second Grand Slam title at the Australian Open commencing next week? Do let us know your views in the comments below.