Australian Open players given exemptions similar to Novak Djokovic under investigation

Andrews confirmed the Australian Border Force, which she oversees, is looking at other individuals who have travelled to Australia in similar circumstances for the Open.

Andrews could not say how many players were being investigated, adding anyone entering Australia had to show evidence of vaccination or medical reasons why they are not vaccinated.

His father Srdjan promised the crowd the protests would be held every day until Djokovic was released.

Nearer to home, former Davis Cup player Paul McNamee who ran the Australian Open from 1995 until 2006 as tournament director, joined those who think the 34-year-old deserved his day on court, not in court.

Djokovic had travelled to Australia after Victoria state authorities granted him an exemption to the vaccination rules but on arrival on Thursday morning the ABF cancelled his visa.

A court hearing to attempt to stop his deportation is set for Monday. Djokovic is being detained at a secure hotel used more often by immigration officials to house asylum seekers and refugees.