DJOK’S RETURN TO OZ
Novak delighted as visa ban lifted
NOVAK DJOKOVIC has revealed his relief at being allowed to return to the Australian Open after his visa ban was officially overturned.
And the Wimbledon champion said lots of good news yesterday inspired his superb display against Andrey Rublev to reach the semi-finals of the Nitto ATP Finals.
The Serbian star, who refused a Covid-19 vaccination, was detained in Melbourne in January (above) after entering on an invalid exemption.
After winning an initial court case, Australian immigration minister Alex Hawke used his special powers to deport the then world No.1 and branded him the “talisman of a community of anti-vaccination sentiment”.
Deportation usually sees an automatic three-year visa ban but a change in federal government has resulted in a change of heart.
Djokovic, 35, also missed the US Open and four Masters events this year because he remains unvaccinated.
But with Australia removing the requirement for overseas visitors to be jabbed, Djokovic will get the chance to win his 10th Australian Open title – and equal Rafa Nadal’s record of 22 Grand Slams.
Speaking after beating Rublev (below) 6-4 6-1 in only 68 minutes in Turin, the world No.8 said: “I was very happy to receive the news yesterday.
“It was a relief, knowing what I and people closest to me in my life have been through this year, with what happened in Australia and post-Australia. I could not receive better news. “Did it affect my game today? I would like to believe it did. I played very, very well. One of the best matches of the year, without a doubt
“Knowing that I have clarity now did relieve some of the pressure me and my team felt.
“The Australian Open has been my most successful Grand Slam. I made some of the best memories there. I want to go back there, I want to play tennis, do what I do best, hopefully have a great Australian summer.”
Djokovic, seeking to equal Roger Federer’s record of six year-end titles, was also happy his former coach Boris Becker will be released from prison and return to Germany before Christmas.
“That’s very good news,” he added. “I’m really glad for Boris.”