Serbian tennis star, Novak Djokovic has raised concerns about his health during his time in Melbourne in 2022, claiming he was affected by lead and mercury in his food while detained before his deportation on the eve of the Australian Open.
The former world number one had his visa revoked due to his refusal to get vaccinated against Covid. During his detention, he engaged in a legal battle to stay in the country.
Djokovic shared with GQ magazine that he experienced health issues and discovered upon returning to Serbia that he had elevated levels of heavy metals in his system.
He stated, “I had lead, a very high level of lead and mercury,” and expressed his belief that the food he was provided in the detention hotel was poisoned.
When asked for proof connecting his heavy metal levels to the food, Djokovic chose not to elaborate, focusing instead on his preparations for tennis. He emphasized, “I’d appreciate not talking more in detail about that because I’d like to focus on the tennis and why I am here,” referring to his desire to perform well at the Australian Open.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs stated it could not comment on individual cases due to privacy concerns but noted that their lease agreement with the Park Hotel specifies that detainees receive freshly prepared meals and that all catering staff are certified in food safety. According to the government, food provided to detainees is varied, nutritious, and meets specific dietary needs.
Despite the challenges he faced in 2022, Djokovic expressed no resentment towards the Australian public.
Upon his return to Melbourne a year later, he won the tournament and noted that many Australians reached out to him, expressing their embarrassment over his treatment. He acknowledged positive changes in the government’s approach to his situation and expressed gratitude for the reinstatement of his visa.
“I love being there, and I think my results are a testament to my enjoyment of playing tennis in that country,” Djokovic remarked. He concluded by stating that while he has not encountered the individuals responsible for his deportation, he is open to such a meeting in the future, expressing a willingness to shake hands and move forward.