Novak Djokovic has revealed lingering anxiety when arriving at Melbourne airport, stemming from his high-profile deportation ahead of the 2022 Australian Open due to his unvaccinated status and Australia’s strict COVID entry rules at the time.
In an interview with The Herald Sun, the 24-time Grand Slam champion admitted to feeling uneasy during passport control, recalling the trauma of his visa cancellation three years ago.
“The last couple of times I landed in Australia, I felt some traces of that experience. I catch myself wondering if someone from immigration will detain me again,” Djokovic said.
Despite the ordeal, the Serbian returned in 2023, triumphantly winning his 10th Australian Open title.
“I don’t hold any resentment. Coming back and winning was one of the most emotional victories of my career,” Djokovic shared.
Now ranked seventh in the world, Djokovic is preparing to compete for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open, which begins next Sunday.
