Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, has confessed that he still experiences stress every time he lands in Melbourne due to his expulsion three years ago. In 2022, the Serbian tennis player’s visa was canceled due to strict COVID-19 entry rules and his unvaccinated status, preventing him from participating in the Australian Open.
Djokovic’s Words
In an interview with the Herald Sun in Melbourne, Djokovic revealed:
“I have to be honest. The last two times I landed in Australia, at passport control and immigration, I felt some trauma from what happened three years ago. I still have that feeling when I go through passport control, wondering if someone from immigration will approach me.”
“The person checking my passport… will they stop me again or let me go? I have to admit, I feel that every time,” the Serbian added.
The Triumphant Return in 2023
Djokovic returned to Melbourne Park in 2023, when the pandemic emergency had subsided, and won his tenth Australian Open title. The champion described that victory as one of the most emotional of his career:
“I don’t hold any grudges, to be honest. I came back right the next year… and won. My parents and my entire team were there. It was one of the most emotional victories I’ve ever had, considering everything I went through the previous year.”
The New Goal: 25th Grand Slam Title
Currently ranked seventh in the world, Djokovic aims to win a record 25 Grand Slam titles. His next opportunity will be the Australian Open 2025, which starts next Sunday.