SYDNEY, (Reuters) – Novak Djokovic must prove that he is a medically exempt from COVID-19 vaccination before he lands in Australia. Otherwise, he will “on the next airplane home”, Scott Morrison, Australian Prime Minister said Wednesday. On Tuesday, the world No. 1 said that he had been granted an exemption from COVID-19 vaccination and was now heading to Australia.

Tennis Australia and Victorian’s State Government said Djokovic was one among 26 applicants who had applied anonymously for an exemption from vaccination.

Morrison said, “We wait his presentation” and provided evidence to back that assertion at a press conference. He was speaking after a meeting with state leaders on how the nation can deal with high levels of COVID infection.

He will not be treated differently from anyone else if the evidence presented isn’t sufficient. Novak Djokovic should not be subject to any special rules. No.

Djokovic’s exemption was criticized in Australia where over 90% of the population has had at least two COVID-19 vaccinations.

Melbourne was the first city to have the longest global cumulative lockdown in place to control COVID. An Omicron outbreak has pushed case numbers up to new records.

After hearing about Djokovic’s exclusion, Jaala Pulford, acting Victorian Sports Minister said that she believed “lots of Victorians will find it disappointing.”

“But the process itself is not special; everyone has received equal treatment.” It is extremely robust.

Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia said that the confidential two-stage application process was conducted by independent experts. Every application was evaluated to make sure that any exemptions met the conditions of Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization.

Tiley explained that the reasons for this were an adverse response to vaccines in the past, major surgeries or myocarditis recently performed or certified evidence of COVID infections within six months.

Although he declined to disclose his vaccination status, the Serbian had stated previously that he was uncertain if he would participate in the Jan. 17-30 tournament at Melbourne, due to concern over Australia’s quarantine regulations.

Tiley said that Novak’s statements in the last two years regarding vaccination make it difficult for him to understand.

He can discuss his situation with the public if he wishes, as well as the reasons for the exemption.