Novak Djokovic unanimously lost his appeal in the Federal Court and his visa was cancelled.
The 34-year-old will now be deported and will miss the upcoming Australian Open, despite tournament organizers picking him to play in the first round.
The case was heard in front of the full bench of the Federal Court on Sunday with three judges available to make the final decision.
Immigration Minister Alex Hawke’s decision to revoke Djokovic’s visa was based on the Serb’s COVID-19 vaccination status and views they believe could incite anti-vaccine sentiment in Australia.
Djokovic’s defense countered that there was a lack of evidence to support such claims, while also suggesting that his deportation could spark further public outcry.
The hearing began at 9:30am Australian time and did not end until 5:55pm on Sunday.
Djokovic had his visa canceled twice in the last fortnight after his medical exemption to enter Australia without being vaccinated was lifted.
The entire saga has dominated the news cycle leading up to the Australian Open, with Nick Kyrgios siding with Djokovic while Rafael Nadal and Stefanos Tsitsipas were more critical.
Djokovic has won the Australian Open a record nine times and is currently tied with Nadal and Roger Federer for 20 Grand Slam men’s singles titles.