Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has sparked controversy with his recent claims of being "poisoned" during his stay in a quarantine hotel in Australia. The allegations have reignited tensions from his deportation three years ago when his visa was canceled due to a vaccination exemption dispute. Food experts have disputed Djokovic's assertions, labeling them as unlikely. Meanwhile, Djokovic is preparing for this year’s Australian Open, where he aims to secure his 25th Grand Slam title and surpass Margaret Court's record.

Questioning the Validity of Djokovic's Allegations

The Serbian tennis star's claim that he felt unwell after returning to Serbia and found elevated levels of lead and mercury in his system has raised eyebrows. Experts suggest that while it's theoretically possible, the likelihood of such contamination through hotel meals is minimal. Damian Maganja, a food policy researcher, described the accusation as "wild," emphasizing the improbability given the mass production of meals and lack of similar reports.

Djokovic's refusal to elaborate on these claims during a press conference further fueled speculation. He referred journalists to an interview published in GQ magazine, which detailed his experience. This reluctance to provide more information left many questioning the validity of his statements. Despite the controversy, Djokovic remains focused on his tennis career and the upcoming tournament. His comments have also drawn responses from fellow players like Nick Kyrgios, who expressed doubt about the poisoning allegations.

Djokovic's Focus Shifts to the Australian Open

Beyond the controversy, Djokovic is gearing up for the Australian Open, where he seeks to add another prestigious title to his already impressive collection. As a ten-time champion in Melbourne, he aims to reclaim his dominance on the court. This year, however, he faces a challenging draw as he competes for his 25th Grand Slam title.

Djokovic's journey back to Melbourne has been marked by significant events. Last year, he won his tenth title just a year after being deported. In the previous season, he was eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual champion Jannik Sinner. This time around, he will be coached by former rival Andy Murray, adding an interesting dynamic to his preparation. With the potential to break Margaret Court's record, all eyes are on Djokovic as he prepares to make history once again at the Australian Open.