Australian immigration authorities have detained Novak Djokovic, arguing that although the Serbian’s medical exemption from Covid-19 vaccination was valid, his views are too dangerous to let him stay.
Djokovic was detained at an address in Melbourne early on Saturday morning, in line with a court order from the previous day, which saw Immigration Minister Alex Hawke canceling the nine-time Australian Open champion’s visa.
Hawke cited Djokovic’s “high-profile status and position as a role model” while arguing that his “ongoing presence in Australia may foster… disregard for the precautionary requirements following receipt of a positive Covid-19 test” as he defended his decision to cancel the visa.
“I consider that Mr. Djokovic’s ongoing presence in Australia may lead to an increase in anti-vaccination sentiment generated in the Australian community, potentially leading to an increase in civil unrest of the kind previously experienced in Australia with rallies and protests which may themselves be a source of community transmission,”Hawke added.
