Djokovic to Get Nadal-Style Tribute at Melbourne Park, But Australian Open Director's Decision Sparks Controversy

Djokovic to Get Nadal-Style Tribute at Melbourne Park, But Australian Open Director's Decision Sparks Controversy

25 days ago | 5 Views

India, Jan. 28 -- Novak Djokovic is poised to receive an honour akin to that of Rafael Nadal at Melbourne Park, as Australian Open director Craig Tiley has approved the creation of a statue to commemorate the Serbian player. This decision comes in light of Djokovic's tumultuous relationship with Australian fans, who expressed their discontent by booing him at the Rod Laver Arena following his retirement from the semifinal match at the Australian Open last Friday.

Tiley announced that the initiative to erect a statue of Djokovic is part of a new 'tennis legends' attraction, which will also recognize other prominent figures such as Serena Williams and Roger Federer in the years to come.

"I envision a precinct filled with statues of the great tennis players," Tiley stated to Code Sports. "Each year, we will unveil a new statue of an Australian, and this precinct is dedicated to tennis. It was designed with tennis in mind, and we attract numerous visitors from around the globe. I believe there is much more we can provide for those fans within the tennis precinct."

Tiley believes that honouring Djokovic, who has achieved an extraordinary ten Australian Open titles and holds a record of 99 wins, is an appropriate starting point.

"His ten victories in this event are remarkable, and I still believe he has the potential to win again," he remarked. "Any opportunity to acknowledge tennis and its champions is one I will support, whether it be Novak, Roger Federer, or Serena Williams—the list is extensive."

Despite his impressive achievements at Melbourne Park over the years, Djokovic has faced challenges in Australia recently. In 2022, the 37-year-old, who entered Melbourne as the defending champion, was barred from entering the country due to his Covid vaccination status. His choice not to vaccinate led to fan backlash. As the 2025 edition of the tournament approaches, he has claimed that he was poisoned during the events of 2022.

Djokovic also declined to participate in an on-court interview following his fourth-round victory, expressing his discontent with Australian journalist Tony Jones. Additionally, he became embroiled in controversy as several tennis analysts questioned the authenticity of his injury sustained during the quarterfinal match.

Tiley will need to obtain approval from the state government and the Olympic Parks Trust to proceed with plans for a statue honouring Djokovic, a proposal that has elicited mixed responses from the fanbase.

One tennis enthusiast remarked on X, "He deserves it, but it is ironic that in a country where he has achieved the most Grand Slam victories, public affection is lacking; a statue cannot substitute for the public's love." 

Another user expressed disapproval, stating, "No thank you" and "Unnecessary."

Conversely, a supporter commented, "This is a completely deserving and brilliant idea. Regardless of personal opinions about him, it is undeniable that Novak Djokovic merits commemoration with a statue at Melbourne Park."

Another fan added, "He truly deserves this recognition, having won the tournament ten times and reached the semi-finals this year, with further chances to add to his trophy collection. A statue of Djokovic should be erected there."

Read Also: Shamar Joseph's Stellar Performance Leads West Indies to Landmark Victory in Australia After 27 Years

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