Tennis star Novak Djokovic says he wants to stay in Melbourne and compete in the Australian Open after winning his visa court battle.

The world number 1 may still be deported from Australia, as the country’s immigration minister is considering the case and could overrule the decision.

Djokovic tweeted: “I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen.

“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.”

I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened,I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen
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. 👇 pic.twitter.com/iJVbMfQ037

He added: “For now I cannot say more but THANK YOU all for standing with me through all this and encouraging me to stay strong.”

Djokovic latest: Deportation threat lingers despite court ruling

The photo appeared to be taken at Melbourne Park, the venue for the Australian Open – which starts on 17 January.

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The Serbian star was earlier allowed to leave a detention hotel in the city after a judge said the decision to revoke his visa was unreasonable.

He had been held there for four nights in a dispute over whether he is exempt from the rule requiring a COVID vaccine to enter Australia.

Djokovic‘s lawyers say his coronavirus infection last month means he can legally enter and that tournament organisers and two medical panels approved the exemption.

The player’s brother told reporters that “truth and justice” had won and that the family were “grateful for the justice system”.

Djokovic’s brother appeared with his mother and father at a news conference in Belgrade, Serbia’s capital.

“It has been a massive challenge for us as a family,” said Djordje Djokovic.

“We have done everything we can to comply with all the protocols. We are very emotional and it’s very difficult for us to defend Novak without offending anyone.

“Truth and justice have come out and I hereby want to thank Australia’s legal system and judge Kelly, who has been unbiased and neutral as he took on board all the facts since he landed at Melbourne airport, including the bullying he’s been through.”

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