Tennis Australia CEO refuses to resign following Novak Djokovic deportation saga

Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley has refused to resign following the fallout from the Novak Djokovic debacle that held the sporting world hostage leading up to the Australian Open.

The 60-year old is under fire after his governing body secured an exemption from the Victorian Government for the unvaccinated Djokovic to enter Australia, only for him to eventually be sent home after an explosive two weeks, leading to calls for Tiley to leave his post.

Tiley walked on to the Kia Arena to a chorus of boos on Wednesday to mark the final match of Sam Stosur's legendary career.

The South African had been relatively silent in the last fortnight, but gave a tense interview with Australian broadcaster, the Nine Network, stating his desire to remain in his job.

"No. We put a statement out recently. I am very focused today on delivering a great event. I am proud of being able to stand up here and you can see what is behind us [at Melbourne Park]," he said defiantly.

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"I am proud of what the team has done and what we have delivered so far. We have had four days of unbelievable tennis and great entertainment and we will have that for the next 10 days."

Tiley and his organisation have also been accused of paying the Serbian’s legal and travel costs in order for him to enter Australia, which he denied.

"I have seen those reports today and we don’t really go into the detail of any financial arrangements that we have with the players but those reports are simply untrue," he added.

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