Novak Djokovic has recently revealed his belief that he was poisoned while being held in an immigration detention facility in Melbourne ahead of the 2022 Australian Open.
In a candid interview with GeoQ magazine, the Serbian tennis star explained that the food provided to him during his detention at a Melbourne hotel made him feel extremely unwell. Djokovic was detained after Australian authorities canceled his visa for not being vaccinated against COVID-19, which violated the country’s strict entry requirements at that time.
Reflecting on his experience, Djokovic said, “When I returned to Serbia, I learned something that I had kept to myself for a while. I discovered that I had dangerously high levels of heavy metals—particularly lead and mercury,” he shared. Djokovic did not disclose this information publicly until now.
When approached for a response to Djokovic’s allegations, the Australian Department of Home Affairs chose not to comment, citing privacy concerns.
Regarding the matter, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was not in office during the incident, stated on Friday, “I haven’t seen the comments, so I’m unable to respond directly. I wish Djokovic all the best on the court at the Australian Open.”
In addition to the health claims, Djokovic suggested that his deportation from Australia was influenced by political factors. He explained, “The situation was highly political”. It had little to do with the vaccine or COVID-19. The real issue was political.”
He continued, “The authorities could not bear the thought of me being there. I think it was easier for them to deport me than allow me to stay in the country.”
Despite the controversial circumstances surrounding his deportation and his family’s discontent with the situation, Djokovic holds no personal animosity toward Australia. He expressed a strong fondness for the country, saying, “I genuinely love being in Australia. My success here on the court reflects just how comfortable I feel playing tennis and being in this country.”
