In October last year state and federal officials confirmed vaccinations would be mandatory for any athletes participating in the tournament, leading to speculation the world number one, Novak Djokovic, who is unvaccinated, would be unable to defend the championship.
However, in January of this year, Djokovic posted on social media confirming he would be participating, as he had a medical exemption approved by the Victorian health department. After some hefty public backlash the Australian prime minister Scott Morrison confirmed Djokovic's visa had been cancelled and he seemed likely to be deported. But Djokovic has now appealed the decision; at present, he remains in immigration detention at a Melbourne hotel. A legal hearing on whether Djokovic will be allowed to play in the tournament is expected to begin on Monday.
Caitlin Thompson is the co-founder and publisher of Racquet Magazine and she joins Emile to discuss the impact of the events in Melbourne on the world of tennis.
Photo: PHOTOSPORT
