Novak Djokovic has admitted that he still feels lingering “trauma” when visiting Melbourne, three years after being deported from Australia due to the country’s strict COVID-19 regulations. The Serbian star, who was unvaccinated against the virus at the time, had his visa canceled on “health and good order” grounds, resulting in a high-profile ordeal that saw him spend five days in an immigration hotel and miss the 2022 Australian Open.

Speaking to the Herald Sun, Djokovic described his apprehension during subsequent visits:
“The last couple of times I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration – I had a bit of trauma from three years ago,” he said. “Some traces still stay there when I’m passing passport control… checking out if someone from immigration is approaching.”

Despite the challenging memories, Djokovic emphasized that he harbors no resentment and reflected positively on his return to Melbourne in 2023, when he claimed his 10th Australian Open title. “It was actually one of the most emotional wins I’ve ever had, considering all that I’d been through the year before,” he said.

As Djokovic prepares for the 2025 tournament, set to begin on Sunday, Australian leaders have revisited the events of 2022. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan highlighted the broader challenges of the pandemic, stating, “Covid was tough for all of us. It didn’t matter who you were… Covid didn’t discriminate.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the previous government’s handling of Djokovic’s case, particularly the denial of access to an Orthodox priest before Orthodox Christmas. “I found it astonishing… that Novak Djokovic was denied… the opportunity to see his Orthodox minister,” Albanese said.

Djokovic, now aiming for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, remains focused on the upcoming competition.

Taylor Fritz secured a thrilling victory for the United States in the United Cup final, defeating Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in a nail-biting third-set tie-break. The world number four triumphed 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (7-4), sealing the second consecutive United Cup title for the USA after their inaugural win in 2023.

The win came after Coco Gauff delivered a commanding performance in the opening women’s singles match, defeating world number two Iga Swiatek 6-4, 6-4. Gauff, ranked third in the world, extended her unbeaten streak at the event, having won all six of her singles and doubles matches this week.

Swiatek, who struggled with a left thigh issue throughout the tournament, took a medical timeout during the second set but was unable to recover. The defeat left her visibly emotional as she exited the court.

Gauff reflected on her continued success, saying, “I think I have the belief that I am one of the best players in the world, and when I play good tennis, it’s hard for me to be beaten. Today I think I played great tennis, and I’m happy to get a point for my team.”

The decisive second rubber saw Fritz step up under pressure, particularly in the tie-break, where he elevated his game to clinch the victory and ignite celebrations for the U.S. team.

Netflix made history this Christmas, setting a new record for the most streamed NFL games in the U.S. Nearly 65 million viewers tuned in to watch two thrilling matchups, marking a monumental debut for Netflix’s exclusive Christmas Day NFL broadcasts.

The Baltimore Ravens’ win against the Houston Texans drew an average of 24.3 million viewers, while the Kansas City Chiefs’ victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers closely followed with 24.1 million viewers. The audience peaked during Beyoncé’s dazzling halftime performance during the Ravens-Texans game, attracting over 27 million viewers.

“Bringing our members this record-breaking day of two NFL games was the best Christmas gift we could have delivered,” Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria shared in a press release. She also credited their partnership with the NFL, exceptional on-air talent, and standout performances from Beyoncé and Mariah Carey.

These games marked the start of a three-year deal between Netflix and the NFL to stream exclusive Christmas matchups.

NBA Also Shines on Christmas Day

The NFL wasn’t the only sports league celebrating. The NBA had its most-watched Christmas Day in five years, averaging 5.25 million viewers per game across its five-game lineup.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ triumph over the Golden State Warriors led the way, drawing an average of 7.76 million viewers and peaking at 8.32 million. It became the most-watched NBA regular season and Christmas Day game in half a decade.

The New York Knicks’ victory over the San Antonio Spurs also made waves as the most-watched Christmas Day opener in 13 years, with an average of 4.91 million viewers.