What is at stake for Novak Djokovic if he is unable to compete in the 2022 Australian Open?
It starts with the opportunity to collect on $3.3 million that goes to the champion in a tournament in which he would be the clear favorite.
On Wednesday, the world No. 1 tennis player touched down in Melbourne ahead of the tournament, which begins on Jan. 17, and was promptly detained by border officials over a visa issue.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in a tweet on Thursday that Djokovic’s visa was canceled due to Australia’s “strong border policies” concerning COVID-19.
Morrison said in a news conference on Thursday that Djokovic “didn’t have a valid medical exemption” to the vaccination requirement for entering Australia.
Novak Djokovic celebrates winning the 2021 Australian Open. AFP via Getty ImagesDjokovic, who has not said if he is vaccinated against COVID-19, filed a legal appeal on Thursday. Players, staff and fans must be fully vaccinated to attend the Australian Open, with the exception of approved medical exemptions.
Djokovic will also miss out on playing for his 10th Australian Open title and fourth consecutive championship at Melbourne Park.
He is currently tied for the all-time lead in Grand Slam tournament titles with 20, alongside Roger Federer and Nadal. Federer will miss the 2022 Australian Open while he recovers from knee surgery.
Novak Djokovic celebrates winning the 2021 Australian Open. APDjokovic received the $2 million prize at last year’s Australian Open. The tournament decided to raise the total prize pool this year by $4.5 million — totaling $75 million AUD [$54 million USD], making it the the largest prize in the tournament’s history.
Djokovic’s career prize money totals $154.8, according to Sportico, which puts him ahead of Federer at $130.6 million and Nadal at $125 million. Andy Murray ranks fourth at $62.3 million.
Djokovic is the highest-paid tennis player, including prize money, appearances and endorsements. From June 2020 to June 2021 he raked in a reported $33.4 million — and $29 million came from off the court from sponsors, including Lacoste, Head, Asics, Peugeot and Hublot.
Djokovic fans outside his hotel APDjokovic was transferred Thursday morning to a secure hotel by immigration until he awaits a court date on Monday.
The Australian Open begins on Jan. 17.
