Novak Djokovic has revealed that he still experiences “trauma” when arriving in Melbourne for the Australian Open, reflecting on the turbulent events surrounding his deportation in 2022. Despite the emotional weight of that experience, the 24-time Grand Slam champion insists he does not “hold a grudge” and remains focused on continuing his success in Australia.
Djokovic missed both the 2022 Australian Open and the US Open after refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine, which was mandatory for entry into both countries. As a result, he was also barred from participating in prestigious tournaments like the Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami across 2022 and 2023.
The Serbian star was initially granted a medical exemption to compete in Melbourne but was detained in an immigration hotel upon arrival. Although he successfully challenged the initial visa cancellation in court, then-Immigration Minister Alex Hawke re-canceled his visa, citing public interest. Djokovic’s subsequent appeal was denied, and he was deported. However, in 2023, he returned triumphantly to claim his 10th Australian Open crown.
Novak Djokovic Opens Up About His Decision and Its Aftermath
In an interview with the Herald Sun ahead of the 2025 Australian Open, Djokovic candidly discussed the lingering emotional impact of the deportation saga.
“The last couple of times I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration–I had a bit of trauma from three years ago,” said the 37-year-old.
“Some traces still stay there when I’m passing passport control, just checking out if someone from the immigration zone is approaching. 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.”
Despite the ordeal, Djokovic emphasized that he does not harbor resentment. “I don’t hold a grudge. I came right away the year after, and I won. My parents and the 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.”
In a separate interview with 60 Minutes in late 2023, Djokovic reflected on being vilified during the controversy. “I was basically declared as a villain of the world, and I had most of the world against me. I had never experienced anything like it before.”
Addressing his stance on vaccination, Djokovic clarified, “I’m not anti-vax. Nor am I pro-vax. I’m pro-freedom to choose.”
Djokovic is now preparing for the 2025 Australian Open, where he will compete as the No. 7 seed, aiming for an 11th title in Melbourne.
Novak Djokovic’s Road to Redemption and Current Focus
In 2022, Djokovic was detained in an immigration hotel for five days and ultimately missed the Australian Open. Now 37, he is aiming for a historic 25th Grand Slam title at the upcoming tournament, where rising stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are expected to be his biggest challengers.
The 2022 controversy began when Djokovic was initially granted an exemption to enter Australia despite the country’s strict COVID-19 regulations. However, his visa was canceled upon arrival, and he was detained. Although a judge reinstated his visa, citing procedural unfairness, the immigration minister overruled the decision, leading to Djokovic’s deportation and a potential three-year ban.
A change in the Australian government and immigration policies eventually allowed Djokovic to return in 2023, where he secured his 10th Australian Open title. However, in 2024, the Serbian tennis star’s campaign ended in the semifinals against Sinner, who went on to win the title.
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
