Ruled out: Australia deports Novak Djokovic after immigration minister cancels his visa

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Category: Health

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. exemption / ɪgˈzɛmp ʃən / (n.) – official permission that allows someone to not do or follow a rule that applies to everyone
    Example:

    The man was granted an exemption from military service because of his medical condition.


  2. grounds / graʊndz / (n.) – good reason for saying or doing something
    Example:

    Her application was denied on technical grounds.


  3. skeptic / ˈskɛp tɪk / (n.) – a person who doubts something that other people claim or believe to be true
    Example:

    I’m a skeptic when it comes to products that claim that they’re 100% effective, so I don’t buy them.


  4. sentiment / ˈsɛn tə mənt / (n.) – a thought or opinion about something
    Example:

    The team members shared their sentiments about the issues they encountered while working on the project.


  5. unanimously / yuˈnæn ə məs li / (adv.) – in a way that's agreed on by everyone
    Example:

    The board of directors unanimously agreed to accept your proposal.


Article

Read the text below.

Novak Djokovic was deported from Australia on Jan. 16 after losing a bid to stay in the country to defend his Australian Open title despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19.


The No. 1-ranked tennis star said he was “extremely disappointed” by a court’s decision Jan. 16 but added that he respected the ruling and would cooperate with authorities.


The 34-year-old Serb was granted an exemption to strict vaccination rules by two medical panels and Tennis Australia in order to play in the Australian Open. That exemption apparently allowed him to receive a visa to enter Australia.


But upon arrival on Jan. 6, border officials said the exemption was not valid. A court initially ruled on procedural grounds that Djokovic could stay, but Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke, who has wide powers, later decided to deport him. Djokovic is a vocal vaccine skeptic, and the government said his presence could stir up anti-vaccine sentiments.


Three Federal Court judges unanimously upheld the immigration minister’s decision. (AP)


This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

  • Djokovic’s exemption was granted by two medical panels and Tennis Australia, but upon his arrival on Jan. 6, officials said it was invalid. How can situations like this be avoided (ex. set standard vaccination rules across all sports institutions)? Discuss.
  • According to the article, Djokovic is a vocal vaccine skeptic. Do you agree with the decision to deport him because his presence could stir up anti-vaccine sentiments? Why or why not? Discuss.

Discussion B

  • According to sources, some people can get an exemption from vaccination due to medical reasons. What do you think people should do to keep those who can’t be vaccinated safe (ex. be vaccinated, always wear masks around them)? Discuss.
  • Aside from medical reasons, should there be other exemptions to vaccination rules? Why or why not? Discuss.