Novak Djokovic's supporters in Serbia have been left awash with news that the world number 1 is again facing deportation from Australia after his visa was revoked for the second time.
Australia's immigration minister used the discretion of his minister to revoke the 34-year-old Australian Open champion's visa on grounds of public interest - less than three days before he was due to defend himself at this year's edition.
Djokovic's lawyers appealed again on Friday to a Melbourne court, which he successfully did on procedural grounds last week after his visa was revoked the first time he landed in Melbourne and four in an immigration detention centre. The nights were spent.
Djokovic initially declined to say whether he had been vaccinated against the coronavirus, but he was exempted from Australia's strict COVID-19 vaccination rules to enter the country for the first time. He said this week he is unconvinced.
If exiled, Djokovic is likely to return to Serbia, where his saga has captivated the public and where he enjoys almost coveted status and overwhelming support.
"I'm a rebel. I'm angry because I didn't expect them to treat the best tennis player in the world," said Belgrade resident Mila Alexic.
"I think he didn't deserve it, especially since he is representing our country and he is the No. 1 tennis player and the whole world knows him that way. I think he deserves to be treated that way. Wasn't worth it."
Djokovic's former coach and mentor Nikki Pilic described the situation as "shameful" and said that Djokovic is being treated like a "criminal".
"People don't understand what it means to be world champion, what kind of strength, will and morale are needed," Pilic said.
"It's not the end of the world if he doesn't play the Australian Open... he will play in other tournaments."
Nebojsa Kovic, a former politician and now owner of Red Star Belgrade basketball club, said the controversy has made Djokovic a "symbol of the free world", no matter what happens.
"He is a global star, an icon of free men. Basic human rights are being violated," Kovic told Prava TV.
"Djokovic is the moral winner of the tournament in Australia."