Tennis star Novak Djokovic revealed in a recent interview with GQ that he was “poisoned” during his detention in a Melbourne hotel ahead of the 2022 Australian Open. The Serbian athlete, whose visa was canceled over his unvaccinated status, claimed tests later showed high levels of lead and mercury in his system.

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• Djokovic said food at the Melbourne detention hotel “poisoned” him.
• Tests in Serbia revealed high levels of heavy metals like lead and mercury.
• He was detained in a hotel housing asylum seekers before being deported.
• Visa cancellation linked to his unvaccinated status and COVID-19 rules.
• Djokovic had submitted a positive test from Serbia to seek a visa exemption.
• Australian government stated his presence could fuel anti-vaccination sentiment.
• Djokovic called the incident an “unfortunate event” and thanked Serbia’s president for support.
• He expressed ongoing trauma and stress when arriving at Melbourne airport.
• The 11-day saga ended with his deportation, barring him from defending his title.
• Djokovic, now 37, is preparing for the 2024 Australian Open aiming for his 25th major title.