Novak Djokovic says he ‘had some health issues’ after infamous 2022 deportation from Australia
Unveiling the Poisoning Allegations: Djokovic's Chilling Account
Detention and Disgusting Conditions
In 2022, Wimbledon legend Novak Djokovic found himself at the center of a deportation saga that left him detained at Melbourne's Park Hotel alongside refugees and asylum seekers.
The notorious hotel had been plagued by complaints of maggots, moldy food, inadequate medical care, and poor hygiene, further fueling the controversy surrounding Djokovic's treatment.
Allegations of Poisoning
Djokovic now alleges that the food served at the Park Hotel poisoned him with "lead and mercury."
"I had some health issues... I realized that in that hotel, I was fed with some food that poisoned me," Djokovic told GQ Sports.
Djokovic revealed that he received a limited number of points to choose items from a vast menu, but shortly after submitting his order, he was informed of an error and had his points significantly reduced.
Aftermath and Ongoing Impact
Despite his court victory that initially reinstated his visa, Djokovic was ultimately deported and faced health issues upon returning to Serbia.
Pressed on the source of the heavy metals in his system, Djokovic pointed to the food in Melbourne as the "only way."
Emotional Impact
While Djokovic claims to hold no grudges against Australia, he acknowledges that his family still bears resentment toward the treatment he received.
"Well, for my wife and my parents and my family, it's not (water under the bridge)," he said.
However, Djokovic expressed gratitude for the change in government and the reinstatement of his visa.
Triumphant Return
Despite the controversy, Djokovic has returned to Melbourne annually and claimed his record-breaking 10th Australian Open title in 2023.
This year, he aims to make it 11 and establish an unprecedented 25 Grand Slam victories.
Emerging Nemesis
In an interesting twist, American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy, who models his game after Djokovic, will face the legend in the first round at Melbourne Park.
"My favourite has always been Djokovic," said Basavareddy. "I've looked up to a lot of different players, but he's been my favourite."