Australian Open: Fans react to Novak Djokovic absence – The absence of “The King of Melbourne Park” hung heavy over the Australian Open for fans of Novak Djokovic on Monday because the Grand Slam match received underway with out the 9-instances champion and world primary.
Australian Open: ‘100 per cent Aus Open has lost its value’- Fans react to World No.1 Novak Djokovic absence in Melbourne- check out
Djokovic was ushered onto a flight to Dubai on Sunday after shedding a Federal Court enchantment in opposition to the cancellation of his visa to enter Australia.
There had been nonetheless representatives round Melbourne Park of the native Serbian neighborhood that has so vocally backed Djokovic to his many triumphs and a few weren’t impressed.
“Djokovic was going to win his 21st Grand Slam and now he doesn’t have the chance. I think it was embarrassing on behalf of the Australian government,” Alek Drakoo informed Reuters.
“100% the Australian Open has lost it’s value. Whoever wins it now, doesn’t really count. Because Djokovic is the number one. That’s the guy, you need to beat him to win it.”
Australian Open: ‘100 per cent Aus Open has lost its value’- Fans react to World No.1 Novak Djokovic absence in Melbourne- check out
Djokovic had been scheduled to play compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic within the opening match of his title defence on Monday night however was changed by a ‘fortunate loser’.
“We all wanted to see Djokovic play,” mentioned teenager Jovan Milenkovic.
“He’s the world number one, he’s played here many years. He’s won it a few times, lost it a few times. He’s a good player, he brings fans, brings income for the Australian Open and I think it was a silly decision for them to leave him out.”
Other not so partisan tennis fans had been extra philosophical.
Australian Open: ‘100 per cent Aus Open has lost its value’- Fans react to World No.1 Novak Djokovic absence in Melbourne- check out
Chris Shannon, who had tickets to observe Djokovic on Rod Laver Arena on Monday, mentioned he understood and revered the federal government’s determination even when he was disillusioned.
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“I think it kind of dragged on a little bit too long,” he mentioned.
“But it’s great that we can kind of put that behind us. You know I (wish) the best for Djokovic, he’s a great tennis player.
“I wished to see him play however. So be it.”
Olga Blom said she was glad the whole affair had been wrapped up before the tournament started.
Australian Open: ‘100 per cent Aus Open has lost its value’- Fans react to World No.1 Novak Djokovic absence in Melbourne- check out
“Well I’m simply glad the main target is now on what we’re all right here for — yeah, the Australian Open,” she said.
Drakoo, shrouded in the Serbian flag, was convinced the saga would not have a long-term impact on Djokovic’s career.
Australian Open: Fans react to Novak Djokovic absence – “The man has been humiliated, bullied, they tried to show everybody in opposition to him,” he added. “But I respect him for standing his floor, standing for what he believes in and he’s mentally robust so he’ll get by means of it.”
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