Australia Immigration Minister Andrew Giles and Tennis Australia have confirmed that Novak Djokovic’s ban from entering the country has indeed been rescinded.
On Tuesday, Australian media reported that Djokovic has been allowed to return to the country in 2023.
“Mr. Djokovic has subsequently been granted a temporary visa to enter Australia,” Immigration Minister Giles said in a statement.
Tennis Australia also released a statement, confirming they are preparing to host Djokovic again at Melbourne Park.
“We always strive to have all the best players in the world competing here in Melbourne in January and we look forward to delivering the best possible tournament for both the players and fans,” Tennis Australia said in a statement.
Djokovic: It’s a relief
Following his Wednesday’s ATP Finals win over Andrey Rublev, Djokovic was asked if the latest reports coming from Australia were true.
Djokovic then revealed that he was informed by the Australian government that he was free to return to the country.
āYeah, it was a relief obviously knowing what I and people closest to me in my life have been through this year with what happened in Australia and post Australia obviously. I could not receive better news for sure ā during this tournament as well. Of course, knowing that I have clarity now, what I do in the off-season, starting the season in Australia, also of course did relieve some of the pressure me and my team felt. Just giving that clarity makes it great for us. Australian Open has been my most successful Grand Slam. I made some of the best memories there. Of course, I want to go back there, I want to play tennis, do what I do best, hopefully have a great Australian summer.ā
Djokovic is a record nine-time Australian Open champion.
It remains to be seen if Djokovic can win a record 10th Australian Open title next year.