‘Such a Shame’: John Isner Furious Over Novak Djokovic Deportation in Australia
Follow Us
The 2022 season has kicked off in dramatic fashion. What should’ve been smooth sailing has become a hectic start ahead of the Australian Open. Headlining the front pages has been World No.1 Novak Djokovic. His stance about Covid-19 vaccination and the regulations of the Australian government have led to a surreal fiasco between him and the government. Most recently, American John Isner has voiced his support for Djokovic.
Djokovic confirmed a few ago that he will be playing in Melbourne, under the condition of a medical exemption. This caused a huge uproar in the tennis fraternity, with many complaining that it was unfair for him to be granted special access. In the series of events that followed, the 34-year-old reached Australia, was denied entry, and then forced to stay back in a hotel.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: US Open Disqualification to No Entry at Australian Open: Novak Djokovic’s Biggest Controversies
John Isner backs Novak Djokovic in Australian Open saga
Having arrived in Melbourne with his entire team, confusion ensued. Immediately after landing, visa issues troubled the 20-time Slam winner, meaning that he couldn’t enter the country. In addition, a statement released by the government confirmed that Djokovic could receive no medical exemption, which meant that his hopes of overtaking Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal would be stopped for the time being. The Australian border authorities apparently kept Novak in a hotel, with no access to his phone.
Among others like hometown boy Nick Kyrgios, John Isner has also expressed his displeasure at the situation. As Novak’s father and fans take to the streets in Serbia, the former top-10 player has voiced his view.
Trending
Madrid Open: Disappointed Coco Gauff Fans Demand Rightful Streaming of Her Intense Encounter Against Madison Keys
April 29, 2024 06:39 PM EDT
Roger Federer Makes Vacation Debut in Exotic Nation With Wife Mirka and Children as Family Continues to Be Top Priority
April 29, 2024 06:44 PM EDT
Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal’s Wife Maria and Sister Mariabel Burst Into Tears After Hearing His Farewell Speech In-Front of Home Crowd
May 01, 2024 12:02 AM EDT
Madrid Open 2024: Taylor Fritz vs Francisco Cerundolo; Preview, Head-to-Head, and Prediction
May 01, 2024 09:32 AM EDT
Madrid Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz vs Andrey Rublev; Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction
May 01, 2024 09:15 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Tennis stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
“What Novak is going through right now is not right. There’s no justification for the treatment he’s receiving. He followed the rules, was allowed to enter Australia, and now he’s being detained against his own will. This is such a shame,” said Isner on social media. He added, “He has a right to be here and is fighting the good fight right now.”
What Novak is going through right now is not right. There’s no justification for the treatment he’s receiving. He followed the rules, was allowed to enter Australia, and now he’s being detained against his own will. This is such a shame. #IStandWithNovak
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) January 7, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He has a right to be here and is fighting the good fight right now. #IStandWithNovak https://t.co/3npIs2twtG
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) January 7, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Do you agree with what John Isner had to say? Regardless of the final decision, the situation is extremely messy, and could’ve well been avoided. Will Djokovic be allowed to defend his Australian Open crown? Only time will tell.