In a recent interview, Novak Djokovic opened up about the emotional distress he continues to experience while in Melbourne, nearly three years after his controversial deportation due to Australia's Covid-19 regulations. The Serbian tennis star, unvaccinated at that time, had his visa revoked by the Australian government on public health grounds. This led to his detention in an immigration hotel for five days during an unsuccessful appeal process, ultimately causing him to miss out on the 2022 Australian Open.
Djokovic Reflects on 'Trauma' from 2022 Australian Open Deportation
Djokovic Reflects on 'Trauma' from 2022 Australian Open Deportation
Novak Djokovic shares his lingering emotional scars from his deportation in 2022, fearing a similar recurrence as he prepares for the upcoming Australian Open.
Returning the following year as Covid restrictions loosened, Djokovic clinched the Grand Slam title for a remarkable 10th time. However, as he re-enters Melbourne for the 2025 tournament, which commences this Sunday, he admits he still feels a shadow of that past trauma when navigating immigration control. "When I go through passport control, I have a bit of trauma from three years ago," he remarked to the Herald Sun, noting how he remains on edge, wondering if he might be detained again.
Despite his emotional scars, he emphasized forgiveness, saying he holds no grudges against the Australian government for their earlier decisions. "I came right away the year after and I won... it was one of the most emotional wins I've ever had," he reflected, particularly grateful for the support of his family and team during that tumultuous time.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan responded to Djokovic's comments by highlighting that visa decisions were made by the federal government at the time, pointing to the broader struggles Covid imposed on everyone. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the previous government for denying Djokovic a meeting with his Orthodox priest during the Christmas period, noting the lack of justification for such a decision at that time.
As Djokovic gears up for another shot at a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in the upcoming Australian Open, both his journey and the collective experience of Covid continue to resonate strongly in the memories of many.
Despite his emotional scars, he emphasized forgiveness, saying he holds no grudges against the Australian government for their earlier decisions. "I came right away the year after and I won... it was one of the most emotional wins I've ever had," he reflected, particularly grateful for the support of his family and team during that tumultuous time.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan responded to Djokovic's comments by highlighting that visa decisions were made by the federal government at the time, pointing to the broader struggles Covid imposed on everyone. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the previous government for denying Djokovic a meeting with his Orthodox priest during the Christmas period, noting the lack of justification for such a decision at that time.
As Djokovic gears up for another shot at a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in the upcoming Australian Open, both his journey and the collective experience of Covid continue to resonate strongly in the memories of many.
