Novak Djokovic, the 37-year-old Serbian tennis legend, has revealed lingering feelings of “trauma” when visiting Melbourne, three years after being deported under Australia’s strict Covid-19 regulations.
In 2022, Djokovic’s visa was canceled on “health and good order” grounds due to his unvaccinated status, forcing him to miss the Australian Open. The ordeal included a five-day stay in an immigration hotel and a high-profile legal battle that ended with his deportation.
Speaking to Melbourne’s Herald Sun, Djokovic admitted, “The last couple of times I landed in Australia, going through passport control brought back trauma from three years ago. Some traces of that feeling still remain.”
Despite the ordeal, Djokovic returned triumphantly in 2023, winning his 10th Australian Open title in an emotional victory he described as one of his most meaningful. “I don’t hold a grudge,” he said. “I came back and won—it was incredibly emotional for me and my team.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the broader challenges of the pandemic. “Covid was tough for everyone. It didn’t matter who you were; it affected all of us,” she said, redirecting focus to this year’s tournament.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the previous government’s handling of Djokovic’s case, specifically their refusal to allow him access to an Orthodox priest during the Christmas season, calling it “hard to justify.”
Djokovic is now back in Melbourne, preparing to extend his record to 11 Australian Open titles and pursue a historic 25th Grand Slam victory. The tournament begins this Sunday at Melbourne Park, where all eyes will be on the former world number one as he seeks to add yet another chapter to his illustrious career.
