Was that the big unknown? How was Novak Djokovic going to be welcomed in Australia, a year after being expelled from the country when he tried to circumvent the vaccination obligation in force to participate in the first Grand Slam tournament of the year. Well, this Monday, the Serb had the right to a warm welcome at the Adelaide tournament, for his first official meeting in Australia.
The player with 21 Grand Slam titles made his debut in a doubles alongside Canadian Vasek Pospisil, which ended in a three-set loss to Tomislav Brkic and Gonzalo Escobar. But the main thing was elsewhere for “Nole”. Applause, encouragement to the rhythm of “Novak, Novak”, then selfie and autograph sessions on his release, Djokovic, 5th in the ATP rankings, received a particularly enthusiastic welcome.
” Go forward “
Certainly, the Serbian flags in the crowded stands testified to the presence of many compatriots, but the 35-year-old player seemed to be unanimous. A world of deviation from the treatment he received a year ago from the authorities after he tried to circumvent the vaccination obligation then in force in this country. This episode had earned him deportation after a stay in a detention center, criticism from local politicians and legal action.
Djokovic had also received a three-year inadmissibility, but this measure was lifted in favor of a change of government in Australia. On his arrival in the country last week, Djokovic, who will try to win a 22nd Grand Slam title this month in Melbourne (January 16-29), admitted that he would never forget the misfortune, but clarified want to “move forward”. The Serb will make his debut in singles on Tuesday in Adelaide, against Frenchman Constant Lestienne.