In brief
Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star, has revealed that he still grapples with memories of trauma during his visits to Melbourne, three years after his deportation amid COVID-19 regulations. The incident, which saw Djokovic’s visa revoked and a five-day detention in an immigration hotel, forced him to miss the 2022 Australian Open. Despite the psychological scars, Djokovic returned to triumph in the tournament in 2023. As he prepares for the 2025 edition, he confesses to experiencing apprehension while navigating passport control, unsure of whether he might face detainment again. He expressed no animosity towards the Australian government but noted that the memories linger. Officials, including Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, weighed in on the situation, with Albanese criticizing how the previous government handled Djokovic’s case, particularly the restrictions on his religious observances during Christmas. Djokovic hopes to claim a record 25th Grand Slam title when he competes next week at Melbourne Park.
Djokovic Opens Up About Ongoing Trauma from COVID DeportationNovak Djokovic reflects on the lasting impact of his 2022 deportation from Australia due to COVID-19 regulations, as he prepares for the upcoming Australian Open.Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star, has revealed that he still grapples with memories of trauma during his visits to Melbourne, three years after his deportation amid COVID-19 regulations. The incident, which saw Djokovic’s visa revoked and a five-day detention in an immigration hotel, forced him to miss the 2022 Australian Open. Despite the psychological scars, Djokovic returned to triumph in the tournament in 2023. As he prepares for the 2025 edition, he confesses to experiencing apprehension while navigating passport control, unsure of whether he might face detainment again. He expressed no animosity towards the Australian government but noted that the memories linger. Officials, including Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, weighed in on the situation, with Albanese criticizing how the previous government handled Djokovic’s case, particularly the restrictions on his religious observances during Christmas. Djokovic hopes to claim a record 25th Grand Slam title when he competes next week at Melbourne Park.
