Novak Djokovic treated worse than ‘Saints’ Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Serbian President argues
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic reiterated his belief that Novak Djokovic receives worse treatment than “Saints” Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and is “ashamed to have to talk about internet conspiracy theories.”
The country of Serbia rallied behind their 20-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic as he fought with every available resource to overturn the cancellation of his medical exemption and visa.
However, whilst Djokovic was successful in his initial appeal, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke superseded the courts ruling and terminated his visa for a second time.
This was done on the grounds that Djokovic was believed to have posed a risk to public order in that he may have sparked or embodied anti-vaccination rhetoric.
As a result, Rafael Nadal made history in Djokovic’s absence as he became the first male player ever to claim a record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title.
Among those most critical of Australia’s handling of the situation were Djokovic’s family, President Vucic and Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic.
The World number one’s father Srdjan said the Australian Government were “crucifying him like Jesus,” whilst Brother Djordje called the saga the “greatest sporting scandal.”
Meanwhile, Serbian Prime Minister Brnabic previously shared her disagreement with publicising Djokovic’s medical documentation and felt “the rule of law was not functioning” Down Under.
In an interview with Belgradian tabloid newspaper Alo!, Vucic said “Novak Djokovic went to Australia, because they said that there was an exception.
“He had valid tests from Serbia and I am ashamed to talk about conspiracy theories on the internet. They stopped him to make fun of him, because of the [upcoming Australian] election.
“Federer and Nadal are saints, and Djokovic is not because he is a Serb,” Vucic concluded.
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