Novak Djokovic says he ‘believes things will change’ ahead of next Australian Open

Novak Djokovic says he ‘believes things will change’ and he will be allowed to play the Australian Open next year.

Djokovic was deported from Australia in January in a row over his vaccination status, and that comes with a three-year ineligibility to be granted a visa.

That would mean Djokovic would still, as things stand, be unable to play the Australian Open next year despite the country dropping the vaccination requirement for foreign visitors.

He, though, has suggested he has been told things could be about to go in his favour.

“As things stand now, I cannot travel to Australia and the United States, but I am hoping to get positive news,” Djokovic told RTS.

“I believe things will change for Australian Open. For the US Open there is not much time, but hope dies last.

“I would like to play at the US Open and Australia Open, but even if I do not, it’s not the end of the world.”

Novak Djokovic has often spoken about the affinity he feels for Wimbledon given it was the first tennis he ever saw.

However, even a seventh title there cannot help it replace the Australian Open as his favourite Grand Slam.

“I mean, Australia probably is the place where I feel most comfortable because of my record there, winning title many times,” Djokovic said.

“That’s the court where I would probably like to play, if I have to pick one match or one court, it would be there.

“Wimbledon is kind of close to that considering the success I had, particularly in the last seven, eight years. I mean, I’ve been winning a lot of matches on the Centre Court. I think I’ve not lost since 2013 on Centre Court.

“Again, even though in Australia I had so much success, this Centre Court and this tournament still has the most special place in my heart because it has always been my childhood dream tournament.

“Of course, every time I step out on the court it is a feeling unlike anything else.

“The more you win, it’s logical the more confident, the more comfortable you feel out there every next time you step out on the court.”

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