Djokovic looks back on the difficulties he faced in 2022 when he was deported due to his unvaccinated status, forced to remain in a detention hotel while appealing the decision. The Australian government canceled his visa on health and safety grounds, impacting his participation in that year's Australian Open. Despite this, he returned to Melbourne in 2023, where he claimed his 10th title amidst eased Covid restrictions, turning a painful experience into a moment of triumph alongside his family and team.
As Djokovic prepares for the upcoming tournament starting this Sunday, he acknowledges that the memories of his deportation still linger, particularly when going through passport control. He expresses no lingering resentment, stating that he does not hold a grudge, while also reflecting on the emotional weight of his previous win.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan shifted focus to the upcoming tournament, stating that visa decisions were the responsibility of the federal government during the pandemic. She remarked on the universal challenges posed by Covid, emphasizing that it affected everyone equally.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also critiqued the handling of Djokovic's case, especially the denial of his request to meet with an Orthodox priest during the significant Christmas period for many Orthodox Christians. The remarks illustrate a broader reflection on the government's pandemic protocol and its human impact.
As Djokovic gears up to chase an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, he carries both the weight of past trauma and the hope for a brighter future in sports.
As Djokovic prepares for the upcoming tournament starting this Sunday, he acknowledges that the memories of his deportation still linger, particularly when going through passport control. He expresses no lingering resentment, stating that he does not hold a grudge, while also reflecting on the emotional weight of his previous win.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan shifted focus to the upcoming tournament, stating that visa decisions were the responsibility of the federal government during the pandemic. She remarked on the universal challenges posed by Covid, emphasizing that it affected everyone equally.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also critiqued the handling of Djokovic's case, especially the denial of his request to meet with an Orthodox priest during the significant Christmas period for many Orthodox Christians. The remarks illustrate a broader reflection on the government's pandemic protocol and its human impact.
As Djokovic gears up to chase an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, he carries both the weight of past trauma and the hope for a brighter future in sports.
