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Tennis – Adelaide International – Memorial Drive Tennis Club, Adelaide, Australia – January 3, 2023 Novak Djokovic of Serbia with fans after his first round win against Constant Lestienne of France REUTERS/Loren Elliott
Novak Djokovic said on Tuesday that the reception he received in Australia was more than he expected and the good vibes will reflect on tennis as he targets his 22nd Grand Slam title this month.
The Serbian star, who will bid for his 10th Australian Open crown, is back in the country a year after being kicked out for refusing to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
He was banned from returning for three years, but the government has since lifted the ban and Djokovic won the Adelaide International, beating Frenchman Constant Lestienne 6-3, 6-2.
The 35-year-old was given a warm welcome when playing the double clash lost there and received the same treatment in the middle court packed.
“It’s great to be back. To see a packed house for my first match was definitely a shock. A lot of support, a lot of love,” he said at a press conference.
“It obviously motivates me and allows me to express myself in the best possible way on the pitch with my game.”
“A lot of Serbian flags, I know the Serbian community in Adelaide is big, but I didn’t expect that many people would come and thank you very much.”
Last year’s Australian Open was overshadowed by Djokovic being put on a plane on the night of the contest after a high-stakes legal battle over his visa status.
It leaves a bitter taste, but he “holds no grudges” and has moved on.
“It’s different coming to Australia this year than other years basically because of the events of the past 12 months,” he said.
“But at the same time, 12 months has been a long time, it’s behind me, I’ve moved on and I’m looking forward.
“There’s no reason to focus on … what you focus on becomes what, if you focus on the negative that’s going to be you, then I don’t want to do that.
“I don’t have a grudge, I’m here to play tennis, enjoy the sport and spread good energy.”
He added: “From day one, people have been kind and generous to me. Overall, it’s been a great experience so far.
Djokovic has also been pleased with the way he has been playing so far this season, which bodes well for his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park from January 16.
“Obviously the first match after the break is more difficult, you don’t know how to start,” he said.
“I’m happy to do everything well, I’m concentrated, I’m composed from the first point to the last.”
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