‘Not a Matter We Can Lobby on’ – Politics Surround Novak Djokovic’s Australian Open Fiasco as Tournament CEO Issues Concerning Statement

Novak Djokovic missed out on two of the most important majors this year. Undoubtedly, that affected his ranking and he could not play at many other tournaments because of his vaccination status. The CEO of Tennis Australia, Craig Tiley, has washed his hands off the issue. He has left it to the government’s discretion. On the other hand, Tennis Australia was condemned for misreading the whole situation at the beginning of this year.

Now that the season is coming to an end and 2023 will be here sooner rather than later, the debate around Djokovic’s participation is starting to heat up.

Will Novak Djokovic be able to play at the Australian Open 2023? 

The Serbian player is in his best form and this is not going to stay forever. He does not want to miss out on any more chances. Despite the difficulties he faced in the country earlier this year, Djokovic has expressed his desire to play at the Australian Open again. However, Tennis Australia’s CEO Craig Tiley has clearly stated that it is a matter between Djokovic and the Australian government.

Russell Fuller, a BBC tennis correspondent, tweeted, “It’s not a matter we can lobby on,” Craig Tiley says of Novak Djokovic’s hope that his visa ban will be overturned by the government. There’s been an election since January, and it’s already getting political.”

READ MORE: “The Coolest Is Novak” – Russian-Born Kazakhstan Tennis Player Praises 21- Time Grand Slam Winner Novak Djokovic as a ‘Great’ Player

Unfortunately, Nole is banned from entering Australia till 2025. But the federal government of Australia can wave it off.

Journalist Ben Rothenberg retweeted, “A useful reminder that the whole detainment/deportation fiasco was really caused by Tennis Australia’s half-cocked exemption program, in which Tennis Australia misread the law, the politics, and the public sentiment. At least TA isn’t going to try to sway government this time.”

How has Djokovic thrived in 2022? 

The year 2022 has had more bitter memories for the player than sweeter ones. Despite being a top player at the beginning of the year, Nole lost his top rank despite winning Wimbledon as the prestigious tournament lacked ranking points.

Moreover, he could not participate in many tournaments because of his vaccination status. However, that has not stopped his progress. He recently won his 90th ATP title by winning the Astana Open title.

WATCH THIS STORY: Novak Djokovic and Maria Sharapova moments that define their friendship

Now, we have to see if the Australian government will allow the legendary Serb to play the hard-court major or not.