The Australian Open has been unfortunately overshadowed by the vaccine controversy surrounding Novak Djokovic. The excitement in and around the first Grand Slam of the year is missing and it is mostly because a lot of people do not accept how Djokovic handled the entire situation regarding his visa eligibility.
Recently Russian tennis star Andrey Rublev shared his thoughts on the same topic. He highlighted how none of the players would want to be in Djokovic’s spot but he also admits that one must abide by the laws.
The 20-time Grand Slam winner landed in Melbourne last week after being granted a vaccine exemption from the Victoria State government but was later detained at the airport. He then had his visa revoked by the Australian Border officials. But his lawyers got him out of the mess by successfully challenging their decision in court.
The problem started with Djokovic’s vaccine status, something that is required to land in Australian lands. But Djokovic is unvaccinated as per his legal team.
Speaking to a Russian publication about the whole bizarre scenario Rublev shared how the personal beliefs of Djokovic regarding the vaccine have nothing to do with the laws. he feels that one must not be allowed to cross the border if he/she does not meet the required criteria. He also pointed out how this controversy has taken all the limelight and excitement from the Australian Open.
“Personal agreements do not give an athlete the right to cross the border, the law of the country is the law,” Rublev said to TASS. “Because the law of the country is the law – local residents and those who come live according to it. None of us would want to get into such a situation; I can only shrug and regret, that instead of tennis now everyone is discussing such things.”
Rublev then went on to share how things will be very complicated for Djokovic. At the same time also admitted that he did not have enough information on the Serb and his visa status.
Coming to the Australian Open, Rublev will look to put up a good performance this season. He has been far too inconsistent to his liking and now is his time to shine.
