Novak Djokovic’s actions caught on camera with Australian Open fate still uncertain

Novak Djokovic 'won't win Australian Open' says Bowers

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Novak Djokovic’s involvement in this year’s Australian Open is still uncertain with authorities currently looking into whether the world No 1 lied on his travel documents. However, after being given the green light to play by a judge on Monday, the Serb has been practicing ahead of the tournament. Should he end up winning the Grand Slam, he’ll move ahead of both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the history books.

Djokovic travelled out to Australia last week believing he would be able to play after securing a medical exemption.

However, upon touching down in the country, he was then forced to quarantine like other passengers from overseas.

Since then, Djokovic has been told he should be allowed to play with Federal Court judge Anthony Kelly insisting he had done everything by the book.

Yet while there’s still uncertainty surrounding the current world No 1, he’s been training like normal ahead of the start of the tournament.

Getty Images managed to catch him practicing on the court, with Djokovic appearing to be in good spirits.

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The Serb had a big smile on his face at times as he got to work, while he was also seen changing his shirt.

It’s hot in Melbourne at present, at least compared to the UK, with temperatures getting up to 23 degrees.

Djokovic was also seen hydrating himself to ensure he stays in top condition, too.

And whether he’ll be allowed to challenge for a title he’s won nine times previously is something only time will tell.

There is still a chance the world No 1 will be prevented from taking to the Rod Laver Arena, with Australian immigration minister Alex Hawke having the powers to overrule Kelly’s decision.

Hawke, who is a close ally of prime minister Scott Morrison, released a statement on Monday that suggested he could intervene.

“It remains within immigration minister Hawke’s discretion to consider cancelling Mr Djokovic’s visa under his personal power of cancellation within the Migration Act,” it read.

“The minister is considering the matter and the process remains ongoing.”

Labor Senator Kristina Keneally wants Mr Morrison and his government to act quickly to solve the situation once and for all.

“Scott Morrison tried to blame the Victorian Government, he tried to blame Tennis Australia,” she said.

“But understand this, only the Federal Government can issue a visa.

“They should have been clear about what his vaccination status was, and whether or not he was safe to enter the country.

“They got themselves into this mess, they’re going to have to get themselves out.

“Right now – what does it say if he gets deported? And what does it say if he gets to stay? It does incredible damage to our tough border rules.”

She added: “Australia looks like a bit of a joke on the world stage right now. It would be a joke except the consequences are so serious.”

Meanwhile, world No 38 Marton Fucsovics thinks Djokovic has ‘no right to be here’.

Speaking to Hungarian outlet M4Sport, he said: “People’s health is paramount, and there are rules that were outlined months ago, namely that everyone should vaccinate themselves – and Djokovic didn’t.

“From this point of view, I don’t think he would have the right to be here.”

Djokovic is looking to win a record 21st Grand Slam Down Under.

He’s won nine Australian Open titles in the past, with his first triumph coming way back in 2008. 

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