‘Hopefully I can have a decent reception there’

Novak Djokovic is hoping to generate a positive reaction from fans when he competes at the Australian Open in under a month’s time.

The Serb’s visa ban was overturned in November after being controversially deported before last January’s tournament in Melbourne after his visa had been cancelled “in the public interest”.

Djokovic is still understood to be unvaccinated for Covid-19, a factor which ultimately saw him fly home ahead of the 2022 edition, but Australian travel rules now state that you do not need proof of a Covid-19 vaccine to travel to and from the country.

Speaking at the World Tennis League in Dubai where he is preparing for the Australian Open, Djokovic said: “I always ask the best from myself so let’s see.

“Over the years I’ve been really fortunate to start very strong in Australia and I love playing there.

“After obviously what happened earlier this year, hopefully I can have a decent reception there and hopefully that can help me play some good tennis.”

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The 35-year-old’s vaccination stance meant he was also forced to miss the US Open, but was able to win Wimbledon and rounded off the year with victory in the ATP Finals in Turin.

That triumph in Italy was not underestimated by Djokovic given how the year began with the saga in Australia.

He exclusively told Eurosport at the time: “Of course, very satisfying and pleasing considering the journey this year that started really badly in Australia with all the things happening.

“So, this victory is even bigger as I said, considering the circumstances that my team, my family and I have been through, but I felt I was not alone. I felt big support from my people, from Serbia, from the region.

“It was just a matter of time before I would find that balance and optimal strength in my game in order to really peak and start playing the best tennis I possibly can.

“Midway through the season that started to happen and I won Wimbledon and after Wimbledon I think I lost one match only.

“It’s been an amazing finish, I couldn’t ask for a better scenario.”

Djokovic shows no signs of slowing down, and currently has 21 Grand Slam titles to his name – one title adrift of equalling Rafael Nadal’s total of 22.

“I would like to play as long as I possibly can. I don’t have really any number in my head,” he said.

“Things are progressing so far pretty well for me. I can’t complain.

“So as long as I play at this level, as long as I have the fire, I’ll keep going.”

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Stream the 2023 Australian Open live on discovery+ and eurosport.co.uk