Novak Djokovic announces "his version" of Australia expulsion
Novak Djokovic wants to comment on what happened in Australia at the beginning of January in the coming days. The world number one has been expelled from the country before the start of the Australian Open after trying to take part in the first Grand Slam of the year with an exemption.
by SID/tennisnet
last edit: Feb 04, 2022, 12:38 pm
Novak Djokovic wants to describe his view of the events in Australia shortly. "I ask for your patience and in the next seven to ten days I will address the media in more detail and, so to speak, with my version and everything that happened in Australia," said the world number one at a joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade .
The 34-year-old thanked Vucic and the Serbian fans for their support during the legal tug of war over his visa, which he lost. Djokovic, who had entered Australia unvaccinated and with a medical exemption, was expelled shortly before the Australian Open and was unable to defend his title in Melbourne.
Nadal wins in Djokovic's absence
Instead, his long-time rival Rafael Nadal from Spain won a Grand Slam tournament for the 21st time, making him the sole major record champion ahead of Djokovic and Swiss Roger Federer (20 titles each). The Spaniard was surprisingly able to prevail against Daniil Medvedev in a heroic fight in the final after more than five hours.
Novak Djokovic wants to return to the ATP tour in Dubai - however, the Serb's vaccination status remains a guesswork. Although the voices are increasing, according to which the world number one is about to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Especially since it seems quite uncertain at the moment whether the 20-time major winner will be allowed to start at other events without valid proof of vaccination.