Novak Djokovic says he is still in “shock” when he visits Melbourne after being deported from Australia in 2022 due to the country's COVID-19 protocols.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has not been vaccinated against the virus, and the Australian government canceled his visa three years ago, resulting in him missing the Australian Open.
Djokovic returned a year later to win the tournament for the 10th time and will be looking to add to that tally at Albert Park when the 2025 edition begins on January 12.
Please use Chrome browser for an easily accessible video player
Highlights of Djokovic's shock defeat to Riley Opelka at the Brisbane International
The Serbian, who lost to eventual champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals 12 months ago, told the Melbourne newspaper: Herald Sun: “I have to be completely honest.
“The last two times I landed in Australia, to get through passport control and immigration – I had a bit of a shock three years ago.
“And some traces are still there when I pass passport control, just checking to see if someone from immigration is approaching.”
Djokovic spent five days in an immigration center in 2022, where he unsuccessfully appealed his deportation.
Djokovic: Some traces are still there when I pass passport control, just checking if someone from the immigration area is approaching me
Djokovic: I don't hold grudges
He added: “The person checking my passport, will they take me, detain me again, or will they release me? I have to admit that I have this feeling.”
“I don't hold a grudge. I came right back the next year and won.
“My parents and the whole team were there, and it was actually one of the most emotional victories I've ever had, considering everything I'd been through the year before.”
Please use Chrome browser for an easily accessible video player
Highlights of Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic's win in the Brisbane International.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan said: “Covid has been difficult for all of us. It doesn't matter who you are or what you have done, it has been a difficult time.”
“We are past the pandemic and what I am focused on is supporting a great 2025 Australian Open.
“We see thousands of visitors flocking from all over the world and across the country to Melbourne for the Australian Open.”
Please use Chrome browser for an easily accessible video player
Novak Djokovic explains why he chose former rival Andy Murray as his new coach.
Djokovic suffered a shock defeat to Reilly Opelka at the Brisbane International last week before the tournament was won by Jiri Lehica when Opelka withdrew in the first set of the final.
The 37-year-old, who will be coached by former rival Sir Andy Murray for the first time at a Grand Slam, entered the doubles in Brisbane alongside Nick Kyrgios.
Watch the ATP and WTA tours, plus the US Open in New York, live on Sky Sports in 2025 or Stream with now.