Novak Djokovic drawn to face Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic in the first round of the Australian Open
The 34-year-old world number one was out practising on Rod Laver Arena earlier on Thursday.
The Australian government, which has won strong support at home for its tough stance on border security before and during the pandemic, must now decide whether to let Djokovic remain and bid for a 10th Australian Open title.
Blunders Made
Djokovic's cause was not helped by a mistake in his entry declaration, where the box stating he had not travelled abroad in the two weeks prior to leaving for Australia was ticked.
In fact, he had gone to Spain from Serbia.
Djokovic attributed the error to his agent and acknowledged he also should have rescheduled an interview and photoshoot for a French newspaper on Dec. 18 while infected with COVID-19.
Fans, including many Serbian Australians, gave him noisy support when he was detained, anti-vaxxers have hailed him as a hero and his family have portrayed him as a champion for individual rights.
But Djokovic may face hostility from the crowd when he walks out on the court.
PM Morrison asked about delayed(again) Djokovic visa decision - says immigration minister Hawke still considering the case, no decision today "These are personal ministerial powers able to be exercised by Minister Hawke, I don't propose to make any further comment at this time"
