World number one Novak Djokovic has confirmed he has received a medical exemption from receiving a Covid-19 vaccination and will play in Melbourne.
Organisers had previously stated that all players and staff at the tournament must be vaccinated or have an exemption granted by an expert independent panel.
Defending champion Djokovic - who has not disclosed his vaccination status - revealed on social media that he's been granted an exemption.
"I've spent fantastic quality time with my loved ones over the break and today I'm heading down under with an exemption permission," the 34-year-old said on Instagram on Tuesday. "Let's go 2022.
"I am ready to live and breathe tennis in the next few weeks of competition."
Djokovic will be aiming for a 10th Australian Open title when the tournament kicks off in Melbourne on January 17th.
The Serbian is in a three-way tie on 20 Grand Slam titles with Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal in the all-time list.
