SYDNEY: Tennis player Novak Djokovic has been deported from Australia after losing a last-ditch court bid to stay in the country, BBC reports.

Judges rejected a challenge by the unvaccinated tennis star after the government cancelled his visa on “health and good order” grounds, it said.

Djokovic said he was “extremely disappointed” but accepted the ruling. It marks the end of a 10-day saga, in which the Serb fought to stay to defend his title in the Australian Open, BBC said.

Djokovic’s supporters fell silent outside the courtroom as the decision was announced on the eve of what would have been his opening match in the tournament. One fan told the BBC her summer would be “empty” without the 34-year-old playing at the Open.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison welcomed “the decision to keep our borders strong and keep Australians safe” but his government faces criticism at home and abroad for its handling of the affair.

(With inputs from BBC)