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Novak Djokovic: Australian Open vaccine exemption ignites backlash

Australians have reacted angrily to news that tennis player Novak Djokovic will play in the Australian Open, after being exempted from vaccination rules.

All players and staff at the tournament must be vaccinated or have an exemption granted by an expert independent panel.

Djokovic has not spoken about his vaccination status, but last year said he was "opposed to vaccination".

Organisers say he has not been given special treatment. But Australians have criticised officials and the player.

The controversy comes as the country is seeing tens of thousands of Covid-19 cases for the first time after enduring some of the world's strictest restrictions.