'Novak Djokovic is the only one on the tour who...', says ATP ace

• Tennis News
• Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic was expelled from Australia on January 16 after the three Federal Court judges upheld the visa revocation order issued by Immigration Minister Alex Hawke. The world number 1 was unable to defend his title at the Australian Open, where he was chasing his tenth seal.

In addition to suffering serious damage to his image, the Serbian champion had to watch the triumph of his eternal rival Rafael Nadal from home. The Spaniard prevailed for the second time in Melbourne Park, forfeiting his 21st career major.

Thanks to this victory, the 35-year-old from Manacor overtook Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the all-time Grand Slam standings. Nole's decision not to get vaccinated risks affecting his entire season, waiting to understand the evolution of the pandemic situation.

The 34-year-old from Belgrade will return to action in the prestigious ATP 500 in Dubai, which will take place from 21 to 26 February. Djokovic will try to lift his sixth trophy in the UAE. In a long interview granted to 'Blic', Bernard Tomic said that Novak will come back stronger than before.

Tomic speaks about Djokovic

"I spoke to Novak Djokovic and told him I was very sad not to have seen him at the Australian Open. I have already told the Australian media that they should have treated Novak better while he was in the country, and that it was a pity that he didn't have the opportunity to defend the title," Tomic said.

Hailing the World No. 1 as a "true champion," Tomic revealed the Serb thanked him for his support and believes he is strong enough to "overcome this situation." "Novak thanked me for my support and wished me the best. What happened is unbelievable, unreal.

But if there is anyone who can come back stronger and has the strength to face everything, that is him. Probably he is the only one on the tour who is strong enough to overcome this. I believe he is a true champion and that he will overcome this situation," added the Australian.

Novak Djokovic is having a forgettable season thus far. The 34-year-old was embroiled in a visa controversy ever since he set his footing Down Under to defend his Australian Open title. He had received a vaccine exemption to participate in the opening Grand Slam of the season.

However, his visa was canceled, and he was subsequently detained on arriving at the Melbourne airport. The Serbian President had criticized the authorities for their handling of this saga. He had said that the court ruling was ‘a farce’. Further, he had told Djokovic to return to Serbia, where he will always be welcomed.