‘I don’t think I’d get one’ – Fellow Slam champion sceptical of Novak Djokovic exemption
Jamie Murray has suggested that Novak Djokovic may have received preferential treatment in being granted a medical exemption to compete at the Australian Open unvaccinated.
Djokovic announced via his Instagram that he is on his way to Australia after being given “exemption permission” to compete in Melbourne.
“I’ve spent fantastic quality time with my loved ones over the break and today I’m heading Down Under with an exemption permission,” Djokovic captioned his post.
“Let’s go 2022!” The 20-time Slam champion added.
Tennis Australia has since released a statement following up to further confirm the exemption.
Now, former doubles world number one Jamie Murray has expressed his view that if, for example, he were to apply for a medical exemption he might not receive one.
“I think if it was me that wasn’t vaccinated I wouldn’t be getting an exemption,” Murray said according to journalist Simon Cambers.
“But well done to him for getting [the all] clear to come to Australia and compete.
“At the end of the day you kind of have to trust that he does have a valid reason for the medical exemption.”
(cont): “At the end of the day you kind of have to trust that he does has a valid reason for the medical exemption” 2/2
— Simon Cambers (@scambers73) January 4, 2022
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley did explain before the news of Djokovic’s exemption that he knew of some players who had already received medical exemptions to play the Major.
“We know of athletes that have applied for an exemption and in cases, it’s been granted,” he revealed on Australian TV program Today.
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