AUSTRALIAN Open boss Craig Tiley said there is still “quite a bit to play out” on whether Novak Djokovic will defend his title in Melbourne, with a clearer picture “in the coming days”.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion has refused to confirm if he has been vaccinated against Covid-19 and withdrew without reason from the ATP Cup in Sydney this week.

All participants at the opening Grand Slam of the year, which starts January 17, need to be vaccinated or have a medical exemption.

There is speculation that Djokovic has applied for one, which will be assessed by an independent panel of experts and remain confidential.

Tiley said the clock is ticking.

“We have still got a few charter flights coming in until the end of this week, and then all the players will be here,” he told the Nine Network.

“As far as the status relates to Novak, I think we will have a clearer picture in the coming days. Otherwise, it is pretty late to show up and play the Australian Open.

“There is quite a bit to play out and I think it will play out in the coming days.”

Government officials in Victoria, which hosts the Australian Open, have been adamant for months that only vaccinated players can play the tournament.

“These are the rules. Medical exemptions are just that – it is not a loophole for privileged tennis players,” said state Deputy Premier James Merlino last month.

Djokovic’s arch-rival Rafael Nadal, who is also gunning for record 21st Grand Slam title, is already in Melbourne preparing after recovering from Covid-19.

Fellow 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer is side-lined by injury. – AFP, January 2, 2022.