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Novak Djokovic Australian Open series 2022

‘Absolute joke’ – John McEnroe rants on ‘total chaos’ of ‘bulls**t’ Novak Djokovic fiasco


John McEnroe has pointed fingers at both Novak Djokovic and the Australian authorities for the fiasco surrounding the world number one Down Under. 

Like many figures in the sport, the seven-time Slam champion is fed up with the series of events that eventually saw the world number one deported from the country on the eve of the Australian Open.

McEnroe admitted he cannot make sense of the situation, why Djokovic was not vaccinated, and why Australian officials handled things the way they did.

“Listen I’ve been part of some chaotic scenes in Australia,” he said on ESPN.

“But what’s gone on the last 12 days tops everything. That is total and utter chaos.

“Absolute joke what’s gone on the last 12 days. I actually texted Novak during this. It’s total BS.”

In particular, McEnroe addressed the grey area present that allowed Djokovic to attempt to play the Australian Open unvaccinated in the first place.

Had the option to play been wholly dependent on vaccination status, the problem could have been avoided entirely.

“Look, if he decided not to have a vaccine, and the Australian authorities say to him “you cannot go down there, unless you’re vaccinated, end of story,” it’s black and white,” McEnroe explained.

“[From there] he decides whether or not he wants to do it. He’s got very strong beliefs, he’s entitled to those beliefs.”

Following the news that his second visa appeal was denied by judges, Djokovic gave a statement that he was “extremely disappointed with the ruling,” adding he would rest before making any further comments on the situation.

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