Novak Djokovic woke up on Tuesday to his first morning outside immigration detention in Australia, almost a week after he flew into the country - and into an international furore over his COVID-19 vaccination status.
But the world No.1 still faces the threat of detention by the Federal Government for a second time and deportation, despite Monday's court ruling quashing the Government's earlier decision to cancel his visa.
Djokovic was back in training hours after winning that court challenge, thanking the judge who released him from immigration detention and saying he remained focused on trying to win a record 21st tennis Grand Slam at next week's Australian Open.
"I am pleased and grateful that the judge overturned my visa cancellation," Djokovic tweets. "Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete at the Australian Open."
Djokovic's plight has drawn international attention, creating a political spat between Canberra and Belgrade, and fuelling heated debates over mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's office says he spoke with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic on Monday. The Australian leader had "explained our non-discriminatory border policy", while Serbian media reports say Brnabic emphasised the importance of Djokovic being able to prepare for the tournament.
Both said they agreed to stay in contact on the issue.
John Alexander, a member of Morrison's Liberal Party and a former professional tennis player, says it would be a mistake for Immigration Minister Alex Hawke to use his discretionary powers to deport the Serbian player.
To do so would "diminish" the status of the Australian Open, Alexander says.
"We had previously been the poor cousin of the four events," he says. "We've got a lot going for us, but we need to treat it carefully."
Hawke's office says the Minister is still considering use of his discretion under the Migration Act to cancel Djokovic's visa for a second time. Spokespeople for the Minister have not returned calls seeking comment.
The ATP - the governing body of men's tennis - has applauded the court ruling, saying the dispute was "damaging on all fronts, including for Novak's well-being and preparation for the Australian Open".
The ATP says the situation highlights the need for clearer understanding and communication of the rules. It strongly recommends all players get vaccinated and notes that 97% of the top 100 players are vaccinated.
Reuters
