Novak Djokovic was 'extremely distressed' amid vaccine controversy during Australian Open after joint practice says Federico Coria
ATPSaturday, 20 April 2024 at 21:03
Federico Coria recalled his practice session with Novak
Djokovic before the 2022 Australian Open, shortly before the Serbian was
deported by the authorities. The world No. 1 had arrived in Melbourne with the
aim of securing his 21st Grand Slam title and breaking the three-way tie of
Slams he shared with Federer and Nadal (all with 20 at the time).
Nole entered the country thanks to a medical exemption that
initially allowed him to compete in the Australian Open amid concerns about
Covid-19. However, federal government authorities detained Djokovic for not meeting
the entry requirements for unvaccinated travelers.
"He was extremely distressed," Coria's reflects on Djokovic's ordeal
Djokovic was released following the intervention of
Australia’s Federal Circuit and Family Court, but he then had to await a
decision from the country's immigration minister, Alex Hawke, to see if his
visa would be canceled for a second time, which would mean he could not compete
in the tournament.
During the waiting period, Djokovic did not halt his
tournament preparations and took part in a training session at Melbourne Park
with the Argentine Federico Coria, who holds a career-high ranking of world No.
49 and is the brother of former world No. 3 Guillermo Coria. The 32-year-old
tennis player recalled Djokovic's distress at that time and discussed his
support for Djokovic at a time when few backed his decision not to get
vaccinated.
"He (Djokovic) was extremely distressed; he was having
a very bad time. He was very excited to be allowed to play. We already know the
end of the story. He received great respect because, at the time, many players
turned their backs on him or did not agree with how he proceeded," Coria
told Clay.
Djokovic won ten Australian Open titles, the most for a man in tennis history.
The Argentinian also mentioned that Djokovic made him work very hard
during that training session: "It wasn't his or my best moment. I had to
tell him to stop making me run because he had been locked up, and I was about
to die," Coria added.
Ultimately, Djokovic was unable to compete in the tournament
in 2022, and the title was claimed by Rafael Nadal in an epic final against
Daniil Medvedev. The Spaniard secured his 21st Grand Slam title, momentarily
surpassing Djokovic. However, a year later, in his return to Melbourne,
Djokovic delivered one of his best performances in the tournament, claiming the
title while only dropping one set in the second round against Enzo Couacaud.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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