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Novak Djokovic US Open 2021

‘He didn’t break any rules’ – Boris Becker comes to defence of Novak Djokovic


Following the sensational news of the detention and possible deportation of Novak Djokovic, former mentor Boris Becker has defended him.

Becker, who coached Djokovic between 2014 and 2016, has emphasised his belief that the world number one did not misstep or violate any regulations in his attempt to play the Australian Open.

After the Australian Border Force and prime minister Scott Morrison confirmed that Djokovic had “insufficient proof” to back up his medical exemption, the nine-time Melbourne champion had his visa cancelled and is being detained.

“[Djokovic] had a medical exemption, along with five other players in the draw,” Becker told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“He didn’t break any rules. They were allowed to play. But obviously some Australians haven’t seen their families in a year and a half or two years.

“I understand the public outcry but I want to defend Djokovic a little bit because he wouldn’t have flown without an exemption.

“He had a medical exemption. He was dealing directly with the Australian Open, it was professionally done.

“Again, so far he hasn’t broken any rules so we have to be careful with our judgement.”

While it was reported that Djokovic would be sent away on the next available flight, his lawyers have secured an injunction allowing him to remain in Melbourne until his appeal is heard in court on Monday morning.

Meanwhile, fellow 20-time Slam champion Rafael Nadal has criticised Djokovic, suggesting this whole scandal could have easily been avoided.

Nadal respects Novak’s personal decision not get vaccinated, but pointed out that each choice has consequences. 

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