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Novak Djokovic has been told that anyone attempting to heckle him on his official return to the Australian Open will be kicked out as the tournament director issued a stark warning to those planning on causing any trouble. The nine-time champion Down Under has not played a match at the tournament since before his Covid vaccine ordeal last year, which saw him deported from the country after having his visa cancelled twice, causing controversy.
Djokovic is gearing up for his first match at the Australian Open in two years after finding himself deported from the country on the eve of the tournament 12 months ago. The world No 5 hit headlines when he arrived in Melbourne unvaccinated last year while the jab was an entry requirement, and had two different stints in a government detention hotel before being sent back home.
The story caused controversy as some Australians had doubts over the 21-time Grand Slam champion being allowed to return to the country this year, and Aussie Open boss Craig Tiley has now sent a clear message to anyone that shows malicious intent towards Djokovic on his return to Melbourne Park to ensure that he received a warm welcome. “If they disrupt the enjoyment of anyone else – boom, they are out,” the Tennis Australia CEO told the Herald Sun.
“We don’t want them on site. They can stay away or we will kick them out.” While the Australian Open tournament director was showing no mercy to those taking an issue with Djokovic, Tiley also expected the 35-year-old to be welcomed by fans after speaking to the Serb about his huge crowd support during his run to the Adelaide title last week.
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