Novak Djokovic has opened up about the emotional and psychological “trauma” he experiences every time he lands in Australia following his infamous deportation saga in 2022. The Serbian tennis star, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history, was at the center of a global controversy just before the 2022 Australian Open when his visa was canceled over his vaccination status, leading to his deportation from the country.
Djokovic, a nine-time Australian Open champion, has since returned to Australia and managed to reclaim his dominance on the court, winning the 2023 Australian Open in impressive fashion. However, despite his on-court success, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has admitted that the ordeal left a lasting emotional impact.
In a candid interview, Djokovic revealed that landing in Australia now triggers a flood of difficult memories from the tumultuous events of 2022. He described the experience as a form of “trauma” that resurfaces whenever he steps foot in the country, despite his deep connection to the Australian Open, a tournament where he has enjoyed unprecedented success.
“The Australian Open is the tournament I love the most, and it’s where I’ve had my greatest successes,” Djokovic said. “But after everything that happened, there’s a part of me that can’t shake off the trauma of being deported and the way things unfolded. It’s something that stays with you.”
Djokovic’s deportation in 2022 came after a drawn-out legal battle over his exemption to Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements at the time. The decision to deport him not only cost him a chance to compete for another Australian Open title but also sparked widespread debate about the intersection of sports, politics, and public health.
Despite his personal struggles, Djokovic expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he has received from Australian fans since returning to the country. He noted that the public and tournament officials have treated him well and have tried to make him feel welcome, which has helped him heal and move forward.
“Each time I come back, the fans and the people are amazing,” Djokovic said. “I feel the love and support, and that’s helped me deal with everything. But of course, some scars remain.”
As Djokovic prepares for the 2025 Australian Open, he remains focused on adding to his Grand Slam tally and further solidifying his legacy. However, his honesty about the emotional toll of the 2022 saga shows that even the most accomplished athletes carry personal burdens that extend far beyond the tennis court.
