Djokovic was ushered onto a flight to Dubai on Sunday just after losing a Federal Court docket charm in opposition to the cancellation of his visa to enter Australia.
There ended up however representatives all over Melbourne Park of the neighborhood Serbian local community that has so vocally backed Djokovic to his a lot of triumphs and some had been not amazed.
“Djokovic was going to gain his 21st Grand Slam and now he won’t have the opportunity. I think it was uncomfortable on behalf of the Australian authorities,” Alek Drakoo explained to Reuters.
“100% the Australian Open has dropped it can be benefit. Whoever wins it now, won’t really rely. Due to the fact Djokovic is the variety 1. That is the guy, you want to beat him to win it.”
Djokovic experienced been scheduled to engage in compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic in the opening match of his title defence on Monday night but was changed by a ‘lucky loser’.
“We all desired to see Djokovic play,” stated teen Jovan Milenkovic.
“He is the globe variety one particular, he’s played here numerous years. He’s won it a few periods, shed it a couple of moments. He is a good player, he delivers enthusiasts, provides earnings for the Australian Open and I think it was a foolish selection for them to go away him out.”
Other not so partisan tennis followers have been much more philosophical.
Chris Shannon, who experienced tickets to look at Djokovic on Rod Laver Arena on Monday, mentioned he understood and revered the government’s decision even if he was disappointed.
“I think it form of dragged on a very little bit way too very long,” he claimed.
“But it truly is fantastic that we can type of place that driving us. You know I (wish) the greatest for Djokovic, he’s a wonderful tennis player.
“I preferred to see him participate in but. So be it.”
Olga Blom explained she was glad the entire affair experienced been wrapped up before the match began.
“Properly I’m just happy the focus is now on what we are all below for — yeah, the Australian Open,” she claimed.
Drakoo, shrouded in the Serbian flag, was convinced the saga would not have a extensive-phrase impact on Djokovic’s occupation.
“The guy has been humiliated, bullied, they tried using to flip every person versus him,” he additional. “But I regard him for standing his floor, standing for what he thinks in and he is mentally potent so he will get by means of it.”
