- Title: MOMENT: Djokovic seen on board flight from Dubai to Belgrade
- Date: 17th January 2022
- Summary: RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA (JANUARY 14, 2022) (REUTERS) VARIOUS OF MEN LEADING HORSES COMPETING IN A BEAUTY PAGEANT DURING THE SAUDI ARABIAN HORSE FESTIVAL AUDIENCE MEMBERS ATTENDING THE FESTIVAL VARIOUS OF MEN LEADING HORSES (SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) SAUDI CITIZEN, MOHAMMED ALROBAIAN, SAYING: "When we see this hosting and this organization, it's on a high and international level. Th
- Embargoed: 31st January 2022 11:24
- Keywords: Australian Open Belgrade COVID-19 Dubai Novak Djokovic deported flight on board plane tennis vaccine
- Location: IN AIR
- City: IN AIR
- Country: Serbia
- Topics: Europe,Sport,Tennis
- Reuters ID: LVA001FUMJ4NB
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Story Text:World men's tennis No. 1 Novak Djokovic reluctantly flew back to Belgrade on Monday (January 17) after being kicked out of the Australian Open due to his unvaccinated COVID-19 status, which could now cloud his participation in future tournaments.
Djokovic disembarked Fly Dubai FZ 1745 flight from Dubai to the Serbian capital, which landed minutes after 12 p.m. (1100 GMT).
The Serb has won nine major titles in Australia and is level with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slams each.
But instead of beginning his quest for a record 21st major title at Melbourne Park, he took planes to Dubai then Belgrade after being twice detained in a hotel with asylum-seekers then unceremoniously booted out by Australian immigration.
The government's decision was in tune with Australian public opinion because of Djokovic's stance on inoculation, but authorities have been criticized for not resolving the issue before he arrived.
Under Australian law, he cannot be granted another visa for three years unless the immigration minister accepts there are compelling or compassionate reasons.
But Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison hinted there may be a way to allow him in next year. "There is the opportunity for (a person) to return in the right circumstances, and that will be considered at the time," he told 2GB radio.
France said Djokovic would be barred from playing the French Open in May and June as things stand now because of a new vaccine pass law.
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