Novak Djokovic says he still suffers “trauma” 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 is not vaccinated against the virus and had his visa cancelled by the Australian government three years ago, leading to him missing the Australian Open.
Djokovic returned a year later to win the tournament for a 10th time and will be looking to add to that tally at Albert Park when the 2025 edition begins on January 12.
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The Serb, who lost to eventual champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals 12 months ago, told Melbourne’s Herald Sun: “I have to be quite frank.
“The last couple of times that I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration – I had a bit of trauma from three years ago.
“And some traces still stay there when I’m passing passport control, just checking out if someone from immigration zone is approaching.”
Djokovic spent five days in an immigration centre in 2022 as he unsuccessfully appealed the decision to deport him.
Djokovic: I don’t hold a grudge
He added: “The person checking my passport – are they going to take me, detain me again or let me go? I must admit I have that feeling.
“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, considering all that I’d been through the year before.”
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Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said: “Covid was tough for all of us. It didn’t matter who you were or what you did, it was a tough time.
“The pandemic is behind us and what I’m focused on is supporting a great Australian Open for 2025.
“We are seeing thousands of visitors flock from around the world and around the country to Melbourne for the Australian Open.”
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Djokovic suffered a shock defeat to Reilly Opelka at last week’s Brisbane International before the tournament was won by Jiri Lehecka when Opelka retired in the first set of the final.
The 37-year-old, who will be coached by former rival Sir Andy Murray for the first time at a Grand Slam, also entered the doubles in Brisbane alongside Nick Kyrgios.
Watch the ATP and WTA Tours, as well as the US Open in New York, live on Sky Sports in 2025 or stream with NOW.
