A medical exemption loophole could allow Novak Djokovic to participate at the Australian Open.
The Herald-Sun today reports that world number one has grounds to apply for a vaccination exemption and he has the support of Tennis Australia.
New York Times journalist and host of tennis podcast No Challenges Remaining, Ben Rothenberg, says it’s part of a broader Tennis Australia strategy to get top players to the tournament.
“I’m definitely aware of the larger phenomenon of Tennis Australia trying to do what it can, or trying to work around systems to make as many players eligible to play in the Australian Open as possible,” he told Ross and Russel.
Mr Rothenberg says it’s “pretty surprising” exceptions are still being pursued.
“It did seem like almost all players were willing to accept the terms,” he said.
Tennis Australia has released a statement repeating the double vaccination requirement to play in the tournament unless a “valid medical exemption” is approved by officials.
Djokovic has been listed to play in Sydney’s ATP Cup in the lead up to the Australian Open, but Tennis Australia has not confirmed of Djokovic has entered the Open.
Last week Tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has posted a cryptic message ahead of the Australian Open as the vaccine dispute within the sport continues.
Tsitsipas took to social media to post a cryptic tweet, seemingly adding his voice to the pressing controversy.
“Everybody got an opinion about things they know nothing about,” the world number four wrote.
World No.4 Stefanos Tsitsipas has declined to reveal his COVID-19 vaccination status as the Australian Open starts.
Players need to be in Australia by the 16th of December if they are to quarantine for 14 days if they have an excemption.