Djokovic Claims He Was ‘Poisoned’ Before 2022 Australian Open Deportation

Before being deported on the eve of the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic claimed on Thursday that lead and mercury were “poisoned” into his food during his troubled and brief stay in Melbourne in 2022.

The former world number one’s visa was revoked after refusing to be vaccinated against Covid, leading to his eventual expulsion.

He engaged in a futile legal battle to remain while being held in a detention hotel.

“I had some health issues. And I realized that some food poisoned me in that hotel in Melbourne, Djokovic, 37, told GQ magazine in a protracted interview.

When I returned to Serbia, I made some discoveries. I never disclosed this publicly, but it did reveal that I had a very high level of heavy metal. I had lead, a very high level of lead and mercury. ”

When asked if he believed his food was contaminated, the Serb replied: “That’s the only way. ”

GQ claimed they contacted the Australian Department of Home Affairs for a response but were informed that they couldn’t comment for privacy-related reasons.

When the season’s first Grand Slam competition begins on Sunday, Djokovic will compete for an 11th Australian Open title and a 25th major record.

He insists that he does not hold “any grudge over the Australian people” despite the 2022 controversy. Indeed, 12 months later, he returned to Melbourne where he swept to the title.

Many Australian people I encounter in Australia over the past few years or elsewhere in the world have apologized to me for the treatment I received because they felt embarrassed by their own government at the time,” he said.

“And I think the government’s changed, and they reinstated my visa, and I was very grateful for that.

I think my results are a testament to my enthusiasm for tennis and the sport of being there. ”

However, he added: “Never met the people that deported me from that country a few years ago. I don’t have a desire to meet with them. If I do one day, that’s fine as well. I’m happy to accept my handshake and proceed. ”

Source: Channels TV