Djokovic in limbo

World number one Novak Djokovic's Australia visa was canceled upon arrival in Melbourne on Thursday amid a storm of protest about a decision to grant him a medical exemption from COVID-19 vaccination requirements to play in the Australian Open. Now the 34-year-old Serbian star finds himself detained in an Australian immigration hotel fighting deportation.

Here's how it has played out so far and what may happen next:

Djokovic saying he had been exempted

For months there had been speculation about whether Djokovic would play in the January 17-30 tournament, given Australia's rigid border rules.

He has refused to reveal his vaccine status, but has previously voiced opposition to being jabbed.

Then this week a jubilant Djokovic boasted on Instagram that he had scored an unexpected medical exemption to play.

Tennis Australia, the sporting body which runs the Australian Open, confirmed the top seed had been granted medical exemption by two independent medical panels organised by Tennis Australia and Victoria state.

Australian public reaction

Djokovic's announcement of securing exemption prompted widespread outcry in Australia, where many residents have been unable to travel or welcome family from overseas for the last two years. And that led to a change in Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison's position. Under additional pressure from soaring Covid case numbers and the collapse of the once-excellent testing system, Morrison defended revoking Djokovic's visa at the last minute. "Rules are rules and there are no special cases," he said.

Djokovic being turned away at airport

Djokovic had jetted into Australia on Wednesday hoping to defend his Australian Open crown and to bid for an unprecedented 21st Grand Slam title.

Instead of a conquering champion's welcome, he was questioned at the airport overnight before having his visa revoked and being transferred to a Melbourne immigration detention facility pending deportation.

The tennis player had failed to provide evidence he was double vaccinated, or had a legitimate exemption to that, Mr Morrison said. He also explained that a recent Covid-19 infection, or one in the past six months, was not a valid reason under federal rules.

What's next for Djokovic?

The player launched an appeal against his visa cancellation immediately after he was held.

A hearing at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has been scheduled for Monday, so he can stay in the country at least until then.