This time there is probably no drama about tennis world star Novak Djokovic (35) – at least not when entering the country.
The Serb is said to have landed in Australia/Adelaide on Tuesday. This is reported, among other things, by the Australian newspaper “The Age”, citing a source who knows Djokovic’s travel plans.
Last year Djokovic had to do without the Australian Open because he had to leave the country due to his lack of vaccination against the corona virus. His visa had previously been revoked and an entry ban of three years imposed. The entry ban has now been lifted by the Australian authorities.
In all likelihood, the record champion will be there again this time. In Adelaide, the former world number one is preparing for his return to the big tennis stage at the ATP tournament from January 1st. The organizers of the Australian Open, which will take place from January 16th to 29th, have already rolled out the carpet for the 21-time Grand Slam winner. “We welcome him to Australia,” said Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley.
When asked how Australian fans will react to Djokovic’s return, Tournament Director Tiley replied: He has “great confidence” in the Australian public and fans that they will react “as we hope they will react”.
Djokovic has won the Australian Open nine times, making it the record winner. “I think he’s going to be the player to beat again,” said Tiley.
Djokovic recently missed the US Open because of his refusal to be vaccinated against the corona virus. His last appearance in a Grand Slam tournament was the final victory in mid-July in Wimbledon against Australian Nick Kyrgios.
Shirtless at -12 degrees Showoff action backfires
It was an emotionally “difficult” year, Djokovic admitted, “because I had to face circumstances I had never faced before”.
Now he has the chance to start the new year successfully with a win at the Australian Open – and to lay the foundation for a much better 2023.
