Novak Djokovic stirred controversy ahead of the Australian Open 2025 by asserting that he was "poisoned" by lead and mercury in his food while detained in Melbourne in 2022, just before his deportation on the eve of that year's tournament.

The former world number one had his visa cancelled and was ultimately removed from the country due to his refusal to receive a Covid-19 vaccination. He spent time in a detention facility as he attempted, without success, to contest the legal decision to remain in Australia.

“My position remains unchanged today as it was a few years ago,” Djokovic, 37, stated in a comprehensive interview with GQ magazine published on Thursday. “I am neither pro-vaccine nor anti-vaccine. I advocate for the freedom to choose what is appropriate for oneself and one’s body. Therefore, when someone infringes upon my right to decide what I should take for my body, I believe that is unjust.” Following his expulsion from Australia, Djokovic took a private flight back to Spain, where his family was located. However, he indicated that the flight was redirected to Serbia. “Why? Because they had information through lawyers that if I landed in Spain, I would likely face the same situation as in Australia,” he explained.

Consequently, he and his family reunited in Serbia.

Upon returning home, he remarked, “I experienced some health issues. I realized that during my time in the Melbourne hotel, I was provided with food that poisoned me.”

This revelation follows his earlier claims that the Melbourne incident had led him into a state of depression.

He continued, "I made some discoveries upon returning to Serbia. I have never disclosed this publicly, but I found that I had a significantly elevated level of heavy metals, including lead and mercury."

When questioned about the possibility of his food being contaminated, Djokovic replied, "That is the only explanation."

A spokesperson for Australia’s Department of Home Affairs stated that they could not comment on specific cases "for privacy reasons." However, the department did mention the lease agreement with the Park Hotel, where Djokovic was detained.

Djokovic harbours no resentment

Djokovic is set to pursue his 11th Australian Open title and a historic 25th major championship when the first Grand Slam event of the season commences on Sunday.

He maintains that he bears "no resentment towards the Australian people" despite the controversies that arose in 2022. A year later, he made a triumphant return to Melbourne, clinching the title.

"Many Australians I have encountered in recent years, both in Australia and around the globe, have approached me to express their apologies for the treatment I endured, as they felt embarrassed by their government's actions at that time," he remarked.

"I believe the government has changed, and they reinstated my visa, for which I am very thankful.

"I genuinely enjoy my time there, and I believe my achievements reflect my positive experience of playing tennis and being in that country."

Nonetheless, he noted: "I have never met the individuals responsible for my deportation from that country a few years ago. I do not have a desire to meet them. If that opportunity arises in the future, I would be open to shaking hands and moving forward."

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