Djokovic had declared that he had not travelled 14 days prior to arriving in Australia
The Australian Border Force are investigating if Novak Djokovic falsely declared that he hadn’t travelled, or intended to travel, 14 days before arriving in Australia.
It’s the latest issue in the Serb’s visa cancellation saga with The Guardian reporting that the 20-time Grand Slam champion had his declaration signed by an agent, following social media posts of Djokovic in his native Serbia on Christmas Day, before travelling to Australia from Spain.
Novak Djokovic and Benfica’s handball player (the best, btw) Petar Djordjic in Belgrade today. pic.twitter.com/U7lti3xjcQ
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) December 25, 2021
In his travel declaration forms, which were filed on January 1, Djokovic answered “no” when asked: “Have you travelled or will you travel in the 14 days prior to your flight to Australia?”
A disclaimer on the form states that providing false or misleading information is a “serious offence” and can be punishable by civil penalties.
The 34-year-old recently won his case on Monday to restore his visa and avoid deportation however Djokovic still may be deported after it was revealed that Australia’s immigration minister, Alex Hawke, has the right to cancel the visa again and deport him.
A spokesperson on behalf of Hawke confirmed that the immigration minister was yet to make a final decision on the situation.
He said: “In line with due process, minister Hawke will thoroughly consider the matter. As the issue is ongoing, for legal reasons it is inappropriate to comment further.”
Should such a decision be made it is likely that the tennis world number one will appeal once more, as well as a request for injunction which would allow him to play at the Australian Open.
Related links:
- Novak Djokovic ‘subjected to torture’ during deportation case, claims mother
- Novak Djokovic thanks fans as footage emerges of ‘pepper spray’ being used by police
- Novak Djokovic’s court hearing stream interrupted by someone playing porn
