Novak Djokovic has admitted he still feels lingering “trauma” when visiting Melbourne, three years after his controversial deportation from Australia due to COVID-19 regulations.

The Serbian tennis star, who was not vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time, had his visa canceled on “health and good order” grounds, forcing him to stay at an immigration hotel for five days before being deported. This incident meant he missed the 2022 Australian Open, where he had hoped to defend his title.

Revisiting Melbourne: Mixed Emotions

Speaking to the Herald Sun, Djokovic shared the anxiety he experiences upon arriving in Australia:

“The last couple of times I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration – I had a bit of trauma from three years ago. Some traces still stay there when I’m passing passport control, just checking out if someone from immigration zone is approaching.”

Despite the difficult memories, Djokovic has no hard feelings:

“I don’t hold a grudge. I came right away the year after and I won. My parents and whole team were there, and it was actually one of the most emotional wins I’ve ever had.”

Djokovic went on to claim his 10th Australian Open title in 2023, cementing his legacy as a dominant force in tennis.

Political Reactions to the 2022 Deportation

The 2022 saga also drew criticism of the Australian government’s handling of Djokovic’s case. Current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the denial of Djokovic’s request to see an Orthodox priest during the build-up to Christmas, celebrated on January 7 by Orthodox Christians.

“I found it astonishing… Novak Djokovic was denied by the then federal government the opportunity to see his Orthodox minister, priest, during that period,” said Albanese.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized a forward-looking perspective, stating:

“Covid was tough for all of us. It didn’t matter who you were, where you came from, Covid didn’t discriminate.”

Djokovic’s Quest for a Record-Breaking Title

Now at 37, Djokovic is back in Australia preparing for the 2025 Australian Open, which begins on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Melbourne Park. With 24 Grand Slam titles under his belt, he is vying to secure a record-breaking 25th title.

As Djokovic steps onto the court, his resilience and determination continue to define his remarkable career.

BBC online

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