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Novak Djokovic says he is still “traumatized” when he visits Melbourne after being deported from Australia in 2022 due to the country’s Covid-19 protocols.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has not received the COVID-19 vaccine and his visa was canceled by the Australian government three years ago, causing him to miss the Australian Open.
Djokovic returned a year later to win the tournament for a tenth time and will be looking to add to that tally when the 2025 event takes place at Albert Park on January 12.
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Highlights from Djokovic’s shock loss to Riley Opelka at Brisbane International
The Serbian, who lost to eventual champion Janik Sinner in the semi-finals 12 months ago, told The Melbourne Press herald sun: “I have to be very honest.
“The last few times I’ve landed in Australia, gone through passport control and immigration – three years ago I was a bit traumatic.
“When I went through passport control, some traces were still there, just checking to see if anyone from the immigration area was approaching.”
Djokovic spent five days in an immigration center in 2022 as he unsuccessfully appealed the decision to deport him.
Djokovic: “When I went through passport control, some traces were still there, just to check if anyone from the immigration area was approaching”
Djokovic: I don’t hold grudges
He added: “The people who checked my passport – were they going to take me away, detain me again or let me go? I have to admit I felt that way.
“I don’t hold grudges. The next year I came and I won.
“My parents and the whole team were there, and considering everything I’d been through the year before, it was actually one of the most exciting wins I’ve ever experienced.”
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Highlights from Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic’s triumph at the Brisbane International.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allen said: “Coronavirus has been difficult for all of us. No matter who you are or what you have done, this is a difficult time.
“With the pandemic behind us, my focus is on supporting a fantastic Australian Open in 2025.
“We’re seeing thousands of visitors flocking to Melbourne from around the world and across the country to watch the Australian Open.”
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Novak Djokovic explains why he chose former rival Andy Murray as his new coach.
Djokovic suffered a shock defeat to Riley Opelka at last week’s Brisbane International, before Opelka retired in the first set of the final, which was won by Jiri Lehka.
The 37-year-old, who will be coached by former rival Sir Andy Murray at a Grand Slam for the first time, also joins Nick Kyrgios in the Brisbane doubles.
Watch ATP and WTA Tour events and the US Open in New York live on Sky Sports in 2025, or Live with NOW.
