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Australia has cancelled Novak Djokovic’s visa for the second time, stating that the world tennis number one, who has not been vaccinated against coronavirus, may pose a health risk to the country. The cancellation effectively ends the tennis star’s bid for a record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, set to commence January 17.
On Monday, a court quashed an earlier cancellation of Djokovic’s visa and released him from immigration detention. However, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke has now used discretionary powers to once again revoke the visa.
“Today I exercised my power under section 133C(3) of the Migration Act to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so,” Hawke said in a statement.
“This decision followed orders by the Federal Circuit and Family Court on 10 January 2022, quashing a prior cancellation decision on procedural fairness grounds.”
Under section 133C(3) of the Migration Act, Djokovic would not be able to secure an Australian visa for three years, unless in compelling circumstances that affect the country’s interest.
Djokovic is reportedly considering the decision and weighing his options.
