Why Australia let an anti-vax swimmer compete, but not Djokovic – Marca English

American swimmer Michael Andrew will be allowed to compete in the Duel in the Pool swimming event, one which gets underway on Friday in Sydney.

Entry requirements in Australia have been modified since Novak Djokovic was deported in January for not being vaccinated. The Serbian star was arrested after entering the country and wasn’t allowed to participate in the Australian Open.

However, The Courier Mail has reported that Andrew will not be prohibited from entering the country despite being unvaccinated against COVID-19.

Australia’s COVID-19 entry requirements have changed

According to the country’s new entry regulations, visitors are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result.

Still, Andrew was at the receiving end of criticism because of unwillingness to receive the COVID-19 jab.

“I’m not trying to be that guy,” Andrew told the Inside with Brett Hawke podcast.

“I’m just trying to swim fast and show people the passion and purpose I have for my sport.

“It’s unfortunate and sad that it’s become almost so political.

“Obviously when you believe in something it’s good to speak up, but I’m not here to try and put my views on people or for people to take it so seriously.

“We have freedom to decide for ourselves and decide what we want. I’m just here to swim as fast as possible.”

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Why doesn’t Djokovic get vaccinated?

Djokovic has made clear that he won’t be forced to get vaccinated in order to participate in a tournament, even if that is a Grand Slam.

“I was never against vaccination, but I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body,” Djokovic told the BBC back in February

“The principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title or anything else.

“I’m trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can.

“I was never against vaccination. I understand that, globally, everyone is trying to put a big effort into handling this virus and seeing, hopefully, an end soon to this virus.”