Novak Djokovic welcome to play the 2023 edition of Australia Open: Craig Tiley

Novak Djokovic is welcome to play the 2023 edition of the Australia Open but only if the government allows him says tournament director Craig Tiley. Moreover, the Russian and Belarusian players can participate in the first Grand Slam of the year.

The 21-time Grand Slam champion was deported because he was not vaccinated for COVID-19. He wasn't allowed to defend his Australian Open title last January after a tumultuous 10-day legal saga that culminated with his



visa being revoked on the eve of the tournament eventually won by Rafael Nadal.

“It is not a matter we can lobby on. It is a matter that definitely stays between the two of them,” Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday at a launch for the 2023 event, referring to Djokovic and the Australian government.

“And then, depending on the outcome,” Tiley added, “we would welcome him to the Australian Open.”