Novalk Djokovic on Wednesday expressed his pleasure at heading back to the Australian Open after being banned last January, with the Serb confirming the news after a win in Turin at the ATP Finals.
The former world No. 1 who was tossed out of Oz due 11 months ago after trying to enter without any COVID jabs, said the normal three-year ban for deportees had been lifted for him.
“I was very happy to receive the news yesterday,” he said after hammering Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-1 in the end-of-season showpiece event.
“It was a relief obviously. . I could not receive better news for sure.
“Knowing that I have clarity now, (I know) what to do in the off-season, starting the season in Australia. It also relieves some of the pressure me and my team felt.”
Djokovic added of the almost unheard-of gesture from the Australian government which is already producing local backlash after the immigration minister made the call:
“The Australian Open has been my most successful Grand Slam (nine titles). I’ve made some of the best memories there.
“Of course, I want to go back there, I want to play tennis, do what I do best, hopefully have a great Australian summer.”
Doping sanction victim Simona Halep has gone online to protest her own treatment by anti-doping…
Rafael Nadal lined up for what was to be the final match of his career…
Jannik Sinner took charge in front of his home crowd on Sunday, crushing ATP Finals…
Daniil Medvedev went into meltdown mode on Sunday during a highly charged 6-4, 6-3 loss, with opponent…
Jannik Sinner could well be missing from the opening European clay event of next season…
Rafael Nadal will bring down the curtain on his career next month as he plays his…