Australian Open 2022: Novak Djokovic breaks silence over detention controversy

Novak Djokovic has broken his silence over his controversial detention in Australia, via a Twitter statement, announcing “I’m pleased and grateful that the Judge overturned my visa cancellation. Despite all that has happened, I want to stay and try to compete @AustralianOpen
I remain focused on that. I flew here to play at one of the most important events we have in front of the amazing fans.”

While his mother Dijana has claimed that the tennis star faced torture, his father has said his rights were taken away, as Djokovic was not allowed to contact his family, teammates, or lawyers. 

However, Scott Morrison, the Australian Prime Minister has clarified that there are no special treatments for tennis stars, and Djokovic was subjected to the same procedures as everyone else. 

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Amid all the fracas his mother has hailed it as the biggest win of his career, something even larger than his Grand Slam wins. She has also thanked everyone who stood up for Djokovic and justice, by extension. She said, “He fought against the system and the government because he had the right to be there. Never before have we faced a situation like this.” 

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Djordje, Djokovic’s brother, also confirmed that the tennis star is already back on the court training. He issued a statement, saying “Novak is free. A few minutes ago, he trained on a tennis court. He came to Australia to play tennis, to try and win another Australian Open. He has been branded in different ways for many years and he has always supported freedom of choice.” 

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While the judge has ruled in Djokovic’s favour, Australia’s immigration minister can still cancel his visa. However, a decision is being mulled over at the moment, and an immediate announcement isn’t likely. Tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has taken this opportunity to speak for Djokovic, saying that if the courts have decided, then Djokovic should definitely be allowed to play in the Australian Open. 

Djokovic, who has won the Australian Open nine times, wishes to surpass the tallies of tennis greats Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. All three of them have 20 Grand Slams to their name and Djokovic wishes to win his 21st if allowed to participate this time.