Bizarre TA apology fails to mention Djokovic at all

Tennis Australia released a bizarre statement in the wake of the Novak Djokovic deportation on Tuesday, saying they would conduct a full review once the Open was over.

But the statement did not mention Djokovic by name at all.

The statement did however, offer “deep regret” for how the matter had affected all of the other players at Melbourne Park.

“As the Australian tennis family, we recognise that recent events have been a significant distraction for everyone, and we deeply regret the impact this had on all players,” a statement from the board said.

“There are always lessons to learn, and we will review all aspects of our preparation and implementation to inform our planning – as we do every year.

“That process always starts once the Australian Open champions have lifted their trophies.”

Djokovic’s attempt to have his visa reinstated in two Federal Court cases led to the Open draw being delayed by more than an hour last Thursday.

Already there are growing calls for tournament director and Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley, and the TA board, to step down.