Novak Djokovic heads to Australia after receiving "exemption permit"

This is Djokovic's view on the Peng Shuai case 2:07

(CNN) -

Novak Djokovic, a nine-time Australian Open champion, says he was granted a "waiver permit" and is heading to Australia ahead of this year's tournament.

Djokovic's participation remains a mystery after players were told they would have to be fully vaccinated in order to participate or have a medical exemption granted by an independent panel of experts.

Organizers of the Australian Open were not immediately available for comment when asked by CNN, and no official announcement has been made.

Djokovic, who is tied with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in 20 individual Grand Slam titles, did not disclose his vaccination status.

Last year, his father said he was unlikely to defend his 2021 title due to the vaccine obligation.

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But on Tuesday, the Serb posted a photo of himself at an airport with a caption saying he was "heading Down Under."

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"Happy New Year everyone! Wishing you all health, love and happiness in every present moment and that you feel love and respect for all beings on this wonderful planet," he wrote on Instagram.

"I had a fantastic quality time with my loved ones during the break and today I'm going Down Under on a waiver permit. Let's go 2022."

This year's tournament will run from January 17-30.

Australian Open 2022Novak Djokovic