BREAKING: Novak Djokovic Loses Lawsuit, Officially Deported from Australia
In a stunning conclusion to one of the most closely watched legal battles in the world of sports, Novak Djokovic has officially lost his appeal against the Australian government and has been deported from the country.
The Federal Court of Australia handed down its final ruling earlier today, upholding the cancellation of Djokovic’s visa and ordering his immediate removal from Australian territory. The decision comes just hours before the start of the Australian Open — a tournament the 24-time Grand Slam champion had hoped to dominate once again.
Court Rules Against the Tennis Icon
In its ruling, the three-judge panel unanimously agreed that Djokovic’s continued presence in Australia could pose a public risk, particularly due to concerns over his vaccination status and prior statements about COVID-19 protocols. The court emphasized that the government acted within its legal powers to cancel his visa “on grounds of public interest.”
The judgment effectively ends Djokovic’s last legal avenue, leaving him no choice but to board a flight back to Serbia late Sunday evening.
Chaos Since Arrival
Djokovic’s troubles began nearly two weeks ago when he arrived in Melbourne claiming to have received a medical exemption to compete in the Australian Open without being vaccinated. Border agents, however, deemed his visa invalid and placed him in detention.
What followed was a whirlwind of courtroom drama, government intervention, and global headlines. Although an initial court decision temporarily reinstated his visa, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke later used discretionary powers to cancel it again, citing the potential for “civil unrest” and “anti-vaccine sentiment.”
Public Backlash and Divided Opinions
The case sparked fierce debate both in Australia and worldwide. Many Australians, having endured one of the world’s strictest lockdowns, were outraged at what they saw as a wealthy athlete trying to bend the rules.
Protesters gathered outside his hotel detention site and the courthouse throughout the ordeal. Some hailed Djokovic as a hero standing up for personal freedom, while others criticized him for flouting public health rules and putting lives at risk.
“I respect his talent on the court,” said one Melbourne resident, “but this was never about tennis — it was about respecting the laws of our country.”
Djokovic Speaks Out
Shortly after the ruling, Djokovic issued a statement expressing “extreme disappointment” but confirmed he would comply with the decision.
“I am extremely disappointed with the court ruling and the way things have unfolded, but I respect the judgment and will cooperate with the authorities,” he said.
“I hope we can all now focus on the tournament I love and wish the players and fans the best.”
Australian Government Defends Move
Australian Prime Minister and government officials stood by the decision, stating that no individual — regardless of fame — is above the law.
“This case reaffirms our strong border protection policies,” said Minister Hawke. “We welcome athletes, but not at the cost of our public health and safety.”
A Costly Setback
Djokovic’s deportation means he will miss the chance to defend his Australian Open title and potentially claim a record-extending 25th Grand Slam. Additionally, the ruling may complicate his ability to return to Australia for the next three years, unless granted special permission.
As the tennis world absorbs the shock, Djokovic’s legacy takes an unexpected hit — not due to defeat on the court, but due to controversy beyond the baseline. What happens next for the Serbian star remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: this moment will go down as one of the most dramatic episodes in sports and immigration history.
