Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley has shut down explosive reports the organising body funded Novak Djokovic’s travel and legal costs in his failed bid to remain in Australia.
Prior to the start of this week’s Australian Open tournament, TA and Tiley came under fire for their role in managing Djokovic’s visa to enter the country, after the Serbian superstar used a medical exemption to bypass the country’s vaccination policy.
Djokovic, the current world No.1, was deported from Australia earlier this week following the federal court’s decision to uphold his visa cancellation.
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In an interview with Nine host James Bracey during the broadcaster’s Australian Open coverage, Tiley denied reports that TA was funding Djokovic’s legal expenses and footing the bill for his travel.
“I have seen those reports today and we don’t really go into the detail of financial arrangements we have with players, but those reports are simply untrue,” Tiley said.
Tiley’s position as the CEO has also come under intense scrutiny in the aftermath of Djokovic’s legal battle, but the long-time TA boss said he wouldn’t step down from his role when pressed on the matter.
“No. We put a statement out recently,” he said.
“I am very focused today on delivering a great event. I am proud of being able to stand up here and you can see what is behind us.
“I am proud of what the team has done and what we have delivered so far. We have had four days of unbelievable tennis and great entertainment and we will have that for the next 10 days.”
Much of the scrutiny Tiley has faced has surrounded TA’s advice to Djokovic as he attempted to bypass Australia’s ban on non-vaccinated travellers.
Tiley remained tightlipped when queried on that issue.
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“We already addressed those questions. Today we’re just focusing on delivering Day 4 and a great event,” he added.
“You have seen how well the Aussies did today, as an example. The feedback we’re getting back from our fans onside of the time they are having is fantastic.
“So we look forward to another 10 days of great tennis, and at some point, there will be two great champions.”
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