Novak Djokovic camp refuses to answer questions alleging his failure to isolate with COVID-19

Kieran Francis

Novak Djokovic camp refuses to answer questions alleging his failure to isolate with COVID-19 image

Novak Djokovic and his entourage have refused to answer questions about the Serbian's positive COVID-19 result and his alleged failure to isolate following the diagnosis.

Djokovic, who had his visa canceled on arrival to Australia by the country's federal government for failing to be vaccinated, managed to have the decision overturned during a landmark hearing on Monday and is currently free to compete for his 10th Australian Open crown.

Before his visa was taken away by Australian authorities initially, Djokovic produced medical records revealing he received a positive COVID-19 diagnosis on Dec. 16.

MORE: Djokovic breaks silence after winning appeal against Australian government: 'I want to stay'

However, Djokovic was seen taking photos with children on Dec. 17 at an event at the Novak Tennis Centre in Belgrade, just one day after recording the positive coronavirus test.

During a Djokovic family press conference on Monday night, in which Novak was not present, brother Djordje and the rest of the family shut down the question-and-answer after a reporter asked about the positive test and Novak's subsequent movements the following day.

"This press conference is adjourned at the moment," Djordje said as the Djokovic family got up and walked away from reporters.

Djokovic himself posted on social media to express his delight at his Australian visa reinstated, but is yet to answer any questions about his December COVID-19 diagnosis.

MORE: Djokovic vaccine controversy, explained

"I'm pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation," Djokovic wrote.

"Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete at the Australian Open. I remain focused on that.

"I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans.

"For now I cannot say more but THANK YOU all for standing with me through all this and encouraging me to stay strong."

MORE: Djokovic, wife speak out after entry denial

While the Serbian is currently free to compete in next week's Australian Open, a lawyer for the Australian government indicated after the hearing verdict that Djokovic could still have his visa canceled if Immigration Minister Alex Hawke decides to exercise his personal power to remove the 34-year-old.

If Djokovic has his visa canceled in this way, he will be banned from entering Australia for the next three years.

Australia's prime minister, Scott Morrison, has been widely criticized for his handling of the Djokovic saga.

Kieran Francis

Kieran Francis Photo

Kieran Francis is a senior editor at The Sporting News based in Melbourne, Australia. He started at Sportal.com.au before being a part of the transition to Sporting News in 2015. Just prior to the 2018 World Cup, he was appointed chief editor of Goal.com in Australia. He has now returned to The Sporting News where his passions lay in football, AFL, poker and cricket - when he is not on holiday.