Novak Djokovic Eyes 25th Slam Despite Melbourne Memories

Novak Djokovic has admitted he still feels “trauma” when visiting Melbourne, three years after Australian authorities deported him over the country’s Covid-19 regulations. In 2022, the Australian government revoked the Serbian tennis star’s visa because he was unvaccinated, detained him in an immigration hotel for five days and eventually forced him to leave the country which made him miss that year’s Australian Open.

Djokovic, 37, returned to Melbourne in 2023 after officials eased Covid restrictions and claimed his 10th Australian Open title. Now back for the 2025 tournament, he shared lingering anxiety over the experience, describing fears at passport control that authorities might detain him again. However, he emphasized that he holds no grudge and values the emotional significance of his 2023 comeback win. While reflecting on the ordeal, Djokovic told the Herald Sun that the events left lasting impressions but he has moved forward.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, who participated in the government’s Covid response team in 2022, avoided commenting directly on the case, instead emphasizing the broader challenges Covid posed to everyone. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized how the previous government handled Djokovic’s deportation, particularly its decision to deny him access to an Orthodox priest during Christmas.

Albanese, who assumed office in 2022, expressed disbelief over the decision, noting its negative impact during a sensitive time. Novak Djokovic, who aims to win a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at this year’s Australian Open, remains focused on his performance. The tournament starts on Sunday at Melbourne Park.