Djokovic’s visa to enter Australia was canceled by the Border Force upon his arrival in the country last month. Although the World No. 1 initially had the decision reversed in federal court, he was deported a few days later, after the Immigration Minister exercised “personal powers” for the benefit of the Australian public.
Djokovic being barred from the Melbourne Slam upset a large proportion of the Serbian public, who collectively promised to boycott the first Major of the year. In that context, the President of Serbia probably felt it was important to host the World No. 1 at the presidential palace to discuss the fallout from the situation.
Vucic thanked Djokovic for elevating Serbia’s status with his achievements and character. He also proceeded to claim the World No. 1 will soon make history by winning the three remaining Majors this year – Roland Garros, Wimbledon and US Open.
Vucic also revealed that he had urged Djokovic to return to Serbia after his visa was canceled the first time around. He did, however, disclose that the World No. 1 refused to buckle under the pressure, since he was very eager to defend his crown in Melbourne.
The president also said he would support the World No. 1 in his future endeavors with respect to developing grassroots tennis in Serbia.
“Although I was in custody alone, faced with many problems and challenges, I did not feel lonely” - Novak Djokovic
During his visit to the palace, Novak Djokovic thanked the president for his kind words and expressed gratitude to his compatriots for their support over the last few weeks.
The Serb made sure to spare a word for Vucic, who was ready to step in and use his power to help Djokovic in his battle against the Australian government.
Djokovic will reportedly speak to the press in the next few days to give his take on the events that unfolded in Melbourne last month. On the tennis front, the Serb is expected to play in the Dubai Open later this month.
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