Djokovic makes the cut while Barty draws dead
After a last-minute delay, Novak Djokovic’s future in the Australian Open seems to be confirmed following the announcement of the draw on Thursday afternoon.
The announcement was pushed until after an update from Prime Minister Scott Morrison, with many expecting a comment on Djokovic’s fate.
Though Minister Alex Hawke still holds the ability to cancel the tennis champion’s visa for a second time, organisers of the Australian Open are treating Djokovic as if he is still going to play.
Top seed and nine-time #AusOpen champion 🇷🇸 @DjokerNole begins his title defence against Miomir Kecmanovic.#AO2022 pic.twitter.com/96MAlHNElG
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2022
The World No. 1 has been drawn against fellow Serbian and World No. 78 Miromir Kecmanovic.
Organisers also announced the draw for the women’s singles, with Ash Barty to begin her Australian Open campaign against a qualifier - meaning she will need to win a pre-tournament competition in order to secure her spot.
Barty Party in Melbourne 🎊
Top seed 🇦🇺 @ashbarty starts her #AusOpen campaign against a qualifier.#AO2022 pic.twitter.com/hMDkESm9No— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2022
The announcement comes while Djokovic’s future in the country hangs in the balance, with a decision from Minister Hawke expected on Thursday.
When asked about the star’s fate at his press conference, Mr Morrison refused to comment.
"I refer to Minister Hawke's most recent statement and that position hasn't changed," he told reporters on Thursday afternoon.
"These are personal ministerial powers able to be exercised by Minister Hawke and I don't propose to make any further comment at this time."
Image: @djokernole (Instagram)