Djokovic "very happy" to be allowed to play in Australian Open 2023
ATP
Novak Djokovic has said that he is "very happy to hear the news" that he will be allowed to participate in next year's Australian Open, after his three-year ban on entering Australia was lifted by the federal government.
Speaking to press at this week's ATP Finals in Turin, Djokovic said, "Yeah, it was a relief obviously knowing what I and people closest to me in my life have been through this year with what happened in Australia and post Australia obviously. I could not receive better news for sure – during this tournament as well".
The 22-time Grand Slam champion went on to say that, as well as being a massive mental boost, also has practical implications as it means that he will be able to start planning his season and build a constructive off-season training block.
"Of course, knowing that I have clarity now, what I do in the off-season, starting the season in Australia, also of course did relieve some of the pressure me and my team felt," he said. "Just giving that clarity makes it great for us".
"Australian Open has been my most successful Grand Slam. I made some of the best memories there. Of course, I want to go back there, I want to play tennis, do what I do best, hopefully have a great Australian summer".
Djokovic will return to Melbourne Park for the first time since the saga in January which resulted in his deportation from Australia, due to his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
The reception he receives may well be mixed, at best. However, the Serb is returning as a nine-time former champion and is simply formidable in the conditions down under.
Despite the difficult year he has had, and the young talent that's risen to the surface this season, it is difficult to look past the former World No. 1 as favourite once again for the Australian Open.
