‘Didn’t Make Him Flinch’: Former British No.1 Narrates Novak Djokovic’s Gritty Story Featuring Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic would not have imagined the kind of start he is having to the 2022 season. The Serb was embroiled in controversy ever since he set foot Down Under to defend his Australian Open crown. The 34-year-old was granted a vaccine exemption to participate in the opening Grand Slam of the season. However, on arrival at the Melbourne airport, his visa was canceled, and he was subsequently detained by the airport authorities.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion decided to challenge his deportation in the Federal Court of Australia. The initial ruling went in his favor. However, Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke exercised his powers and upheld his deportation. Finally, a day before the start of the Australian Open, the Serb lost his final appeal.

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His fellow athletes and former legendary players voiced their opinions on this issue. Recently, during a podcast, the former World Number 4, Greg Rusedski, opened up about these events.

Greg Rusedski backs Novak Djokovic to come back stronger

The 48-year-old was asked about what to expect the next time Djokovic picks up a racket. Rusedski said that Novak would have “the bit between his teeth” and that he’s expecting the World No. 1 to come back stronger.

Further, he mentioned the Serb’s match against Roger Federer at the US Open when he was present on the court. He added, “He had 22 and a half thousand people against him apart from his support box. (It) didn’t make him flinch or bother him whatsoever against one of the all-time greats.” 

Further, Rusedski went on to say, “Djokovic wants to go down as the greatest male tennis player in the history of the sport and probably even break Margaret Court’s record of 24 majors.”

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Novak Djokovic will look to put his Australian Open 2022 disappointment behind him as he heads further in the season. He will next play at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, which will commence on February 21, 2022.