Novak Djokovic is legally challenging Australia’s decision to cancel his visa, with the appeal set to be heard in the Federal Court at 6pm.
His case was due to be heard in the court at 4pm, after it had been adjourned from an earlier hearing.
However, Judge A Kelly “emphasised without criticism” that he had not been able to make a ruling on Djokovic’s application because the documents had not reached him since the court was adjourned earlier in the afternoon.
Novak Djokovic captured as he arrived into Australia and had his visa denied
The court heard Tennis Australia would need to know by Tuesday if Djokovic can play at the Australian Open, to which the Judge responded: “The tail won’t be wagging the dog here”.
It is likely Djokovic will remain in Australia overnight.
Earlier, Scott Morrison claimed Novak Djokovic’s high-profile anti-vaccination stance was a magnet for attention at Australia’s border.
The prime minister also explained that the evidence Djokovic had relied on for a medical exemption to enter Australia without being vaccinated was insufficient.
“He did not have a valid medical exemption,” Mr Morrison said, explaining why Djokovic’s visa was sensationally cancelled by Australian Border Force this morning.
There are reports the world number one will be deported on a flight tonight after he was taken to a Carlton hotel following his nine-hour detention at Melbourne Airport.
