World No.1 Novak Djokovic says he isn�t feeling as nervous in Australia this year compared to last summer as he attempts to snare grand slam No.25 in his self-proclaimed happy place. Djokovic made headlines across the world when he...
World No.1 Novak Djokovic says he isn�t feeling as nervous in Australia this year compared to last summer as he attempts to snare grand slam No.25 in his self-proclaimed happy place.
Djokovic made headlines across the world when he was deported from Australia in January 2022 for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine.
The 36-year-old returned to the country last summer, and he wore his emotions on his sleeve on the way to winning the Australian Open for a record 10th time.
The tears Djokovic shed upon winning the first grand slam of the year showcased the emotional rollercoaster he had endured to get back to that stage.
Djokovic�s arrival in Australia this time around has been a far more stock-standard affair, and he�ll start the summer competing for Serbia in Perth at the mixed-teams United Cup.
�It�s a bit different (this year),� Djokovic said on Saturday afternoon.
�Last year coming into Australia, obviously after what happened two years ago, I did feel slightly more nervous, particularly in the first week or so being in Australia.
�But actually people in Adelaide � because that�s where I landed first last year � welcomed me with open arms and lots of support and very kind reception.
�And then I had the perfect record actually, winning both Adelaide and Australian Open.
�That that was pretty much the case when, throughout most of my career, I had the great start of the season in Australia.
�I always felt like that (Australia) was my happy place where I�ve felt great, other than that situation two years ago where obviously it wasn�t really enjoyable.
�But other than that, I�ve always enjoyed myself, play the best tennis, and so my feelings coming into Australia this year are really positive.�
Djokovic will spearhead team Serbia alongside world No.119 Olga Danilovic.
(Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
So how will Djokovic treat the event?
�There�s only one percentage in my head, it�s always 100 per cent really,� Djokovic said.
�I wouldn�t be here if I�m not able to play or give my best in both singles and potentially mixed doubles.
�So, you know, I look forward hopefully contributing with at least one win for my country.�
Serbia will begin their campaign against China on Sunday evening, pitting Djokovic against world No.58 Zhizhen Zhang in the men�s singles.
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Djokovic has been busy fine-tuning his game since arriving in on Thursday, but he also had time for a trip to Rottnest Island.
