"Take time to rest and recover", Djokovic, "very disappointed", admits his defeat

Summoned to leave Australian territory and struck by the decision of the federal court, Novak Djokovic reacted with a short press release one hour after the verdict pronounced by Judge Allsop.

“I will take time to rest and recover before making any further comments,” wrote the world No. 1, nine-time winner of the Australian Open and winner of the last three editions.

I am very disappointed that the Court rejected my request after the Minister's decision to cancel my visa, which means that I cannot stay in Australia and participate in the Australian Open.

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Before adding: “I respect the judgment of the court and I will cooperate with the competent authorities regarding my departure from the country.

Departure which should take place in the next few hours.

🚨Novak #Djokovic reacts in a press release, published on Sunday, to the decision of the Federal Court.

#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/pggPKjNCTo

— So Tennis (@sotennis1) January 16, 2022

If he had won, the Serb would have started his quest for a 21st Grand Slam on Monday evening against his compatriot Kecmanovic.

He will be replaced by a lucky loser, the Italian Salvatore Caruso.

For him, it's time to open the tennis page and close the news item.

“I'm embarrassed to have been the center of attention for the past few weeks and I hope now that we will all focus on the game and a tournament that I love.

I would like to wish the best for the tournament to the officials, staff, volunteers and fans.

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“You have been a great source of strength to me”

Djokovic ends his message with thanks to those who have supported him since his eventful arrival in Melbourne on the evening of January 5.

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, my friends, my team, the supporters and my Serbian companions for your unwavering support.

You have all been a great source of strength to me.

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