Novak Djokovic Reflects on 2022 Australian Deportation, Reveals Lingering Trauma Ahead of 2025 Open

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Novak Djokovic, a 10-time Australian Open champion, has revealed the emotional scars left by his 2022 deportation from Australia. Speaking to the Herald Sun, Djokovic admitted to feeling "trauma" every time he passes through Australian passport control.

He recalled the ordeal three years ago that dominated international headlines. "I have (some trauma), to be quite frank," Djokovic said. "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."

He added, "And some traces still stay there when I'm passing passport control, just checking out if someone from immigration zone is approaching." Djokovic's deportation stemmed from Australia's strict COVID-19 regulations at the time.

Despite receiving a medical exemption to compete in the Australian Open, the Serbian tennis star was detained at the airport after authorities deemed his exemption invalid. Djokovic, who has voiced opposition to vaccinations, had argued that his prior COVID-19 infection qualified him for an exemption.

He spent five days in an immigration hotel while appealing the decision. Though a judge initially reinstated his visa, the Australian government ultimately revoked it on public health grounds, leading to his deportation and a potential three-year ban from re-entering the country.

In 2023, a change in government and COVID-19 policies saw Djokovic granted a visa. He returned triumphantly to Melbourne, winning his 22nd Grand Slam in one of the most emotional moments of his career.

"I don't hold any resentment, to be honest," Djokovic stated. "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 I've ever had considering all that I'd been through the year before."

Now 37, Djokovic is preparing for the 2025 Australian Open, where he aims to secure a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. Reflecting on the challenges of 2022, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the previous government's handling of Djokovic's case, particularly its refusal to allow him access to an Orthodox priest ahead of Christmas.