“This Is a Shame”: Compatriots Flock at Serbia’s Airport as Novak Djokovic Flies Back From Australia

The tennis world is still in shock over the deportation of World No.1 Novak Djokovic from Australia. On Sunday, the drama unfolded in an Australian court where the judge ruled against Djokovic in the visa cancellation case. 

The saga lasted for about two weeks, from when he first announced that he had received a medical exemption for the Australian Open and lasted until his eventual deportation. On Monday, Djokovic finally reached his home in Serbia and was greeted by fans at the airport.

Novak Djokovic is back in Serbia

On Monday, the Serbian finally reached Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Upon his arrival at the airport, the World No.1 reportedly met with his younger brother, Djordje Djokovic. Djokovic would’ve been delighted to be in familiar territory again after his battle with the Australian Government. 

While the saga was still ongoing, Djordje came out and praised Australian star Nick Kyrgios for supporting Novak throughout the ordeal. Kyrgios’ comments came as a surprise because he and Novak hadn’t always seen eye to eye.

Serbian supporters of Novak also gathered around the airport to show support for the World No.1. Some of them were furious over the Serb’s deportation from Australia. One supporter said, “This is a shame what they did to Novak in Australia.”

What does the future hold for Djokovic?

Novak probably will never forget the experience he had in Australia over his visa. He had a great chance to win the Australian Open title again after winning it last year. However, his deportation means Novak will not get the chance to win his 10th Australian Open and record-breaking 21st Grand slam title. 

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According to various reports, the 20-time Grand Slam winner may get a 3-year ban from entering Australia as well. Meanwhile, the French Sports ministry has also said that there will be no exemption for the players; which means vaccination will be mandatory for all the players to play in the French Open. 

French Open is in May and if Novak stays unvaccinated, he might not get the chance to play in Paris either. That means, he will have to wait a long time to play a Grand Slam and win his 21st title. 

What do you think is next for Djokovic? Let us know in the comments.

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