The protester had a sign saying ‘abolish refugee detention’
A pro-refugee protester managed to jump onto the court during the Australian Open final while holding a sign which read “abolish refugee detention.”
The final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev was temporarily paused as the demonstrator was able to jump onto the court, where he was the booed by large sections of the crowd.
After making a short dash towards the corner of the court, security managed to seize the protestor, taking him away from the Rod Laver’s Arena. The crowd could then be heard as he was dragged away, with one spectator shouting “get off the stage!”
Some bozo just jumped out of the stands onto the court (probably about three meters), got dragged out.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/u4xzjTaIEf
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 30, 2022
Conversations surrounding Australia’s treatment of refugees was brought to light during the Novak Djokovic visa saga, which saw him detained in a hotel which had become renowned for housing refugees and asylum seekers.
The conditions of the hotel and treatment the Serb received led to large protests, which Australian authorities have attempted to keep to a minimum.
Following the short delay, the match was able to continue, with Nadal making a stunning comeback to secure his 21st Grand Slam title – becoming the all-time highest Grand Slam winner in history.
You won't see better celebrations than this on a tennis court 🙌
Rafa Nadal delivered the 𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄 comeback to win the 2022 Australian Open 🇦🇺🏆#AusOpen | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/VHL2JuJoVS
— Eurosport (@eurosport) January 30, 2022
He now surpasses closest rivals Djokovic and Rodger Federer – who both have 20 Grand Slam titles to their name.
The Spaniard had been two sets down to Medvedev, but the serial winner showed why he is one of the best in the world to stage an impressive fightback to win in a five-set victory, winning 3-2 and make history.
Related links:
- Rafael Nadal wins record 21st Grand Slam in Australian Open victory
- Man found guilty of stalking Emma Raducanu
- Daniil Medvedev loses his cool in explosive rant at Australian Open umpire
