Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Australia cancels Novak Djokovic's visa ahead of Open

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 1/5/22

The saga involving Novak Djokovic's entry into Australia appears to be ending with the tennis star being sent home.

Djokovic, 34, was held in Melbourne for several hours due to an issue with his visa. Sources are now saying Djokovic has been denied access to the country and that his lawyers will likely appeal the decision.

World Number 1 Novak Djokovic remains at Melbourne Airport after his arrival just before midnight — his visa has now been cancelled by Australian Border Force. I understand he will now challenge the decision in the Victorian courts #ausopen
— Clint Stanaway (@cstanaway) January 5, 2022

The issue with Djokovic's visa stemmed from him not being able to supply sufficient proof that he is exempt from getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

Australian Border Force confirms cancellation of Novak Djokovic’s visa. #AusOpen https://t.co/uqHryRYumq pic.twitter.com/hRpMqBnpOU
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 5, 2022

Djokovic's decision to get a medical exemption caused a public outcry long before he was detained in Melbourne this week, with the hashtag "Novax Djokivid" gaining plenty of traction on social media ahead of his detainment at the airport.

Djokovic was the favorite to win the Australian Open at +110.

More must-reads: