Novak Djokovic reveals emotional impact of Australian deportation

Novak Djokovic has admitted that his 2022 deportation from Australia still leaves a lasting emotional impact, describing the experience as a source of anxiety whenever he enters the country.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 Australian Open, the Serbian tennis star reflected on the incident that saw him barred from competing in the tournament three years ago due to his unvaccinated status during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The last couple of times that I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration — I had a bit of trauma from three years ago,” Djokovic shared in a recent interview.

“And some traces still stay there when I’m passing passport control, just checking out if someone from immigration zone is approaching.”

Djokovic’s ordeal in 2022 began when he attempted to enter Australia under a medical exemption.

The situation escalated into a highly publicized legal battle, resulting in his detention and eventual deportation.

Reflecting on the aftermath, Djokovic admitted, “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 lingering unease, Djokovic holds no resentment over the incident.

In fact, he made a triumphant return in 2023, reclaiming the Australian Open title and achieving his 22nd Grand Slam victory.

“I don’t hold any resentment,” Djokovic said. “I don’t hold a grudge. I came right away the year after in 2023, and I won the Australian Open. It was my 22nd slam.

My parents and whole team were there, and it was actually one of the most emotional wins that I’ve ever had considering all that I’d been through the year before.”

As the 2025 Australian Open approaches, Djokovic is once again a strong contender to win his 25th Grand Slam title.

Tennis betting odds place him on the second line of betting, with top sportsbooks such as Bovada offering +350 for the 10-time champion to secure the trophy at Melbourne Park.

Jannik Sinner, last year’s champion, enters the tournament as the outright favorite, paying +137.

Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz shares the second line of betting with Djokovic at +350, setting the stage for an exciting competition.

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