Novak Djokovic claims he was poisoned while detained in Australia
Xtra Time Web Desk: Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic has made a startling claim, alleging that he was poisoned during his detention in Australia in early 2022. Speaking to GQ, the 36-year-old revealed that his time in an immigration detention center in Melbourne was marked by severe health complications, which he attributes to deliberate poisoning.
“I had some health issues. And I realized that in that hotel in Melbourne I was fed with some food that poisoned me,” Djokovic stated. He further disclosed that tests conducted upon his return to Serbia showed abnormally high levels of heavy metals, including lead and mercury.
When asked for clarification, Djokovic remarked, “That’s the only way,” suggesting the food served in detention could have been the source.
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A tumultuous chapter
Djokovic’s detention in January 2022 came after Australian authorities canceled his visa due to his unvaccinated status against Covid-19. The incident triggered international outcry and legal battles, culminating in his deportation.
The tennis star shared that his ordeal in detention left him with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and extreme weakness. In an interview with Hungarian magazine Blic, Djokovic described the experience:
“There were a lot of days when I felt so weak that I couldn't even get out of bed... It was as though my body was shutting down.”
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Broader implications
Djokovic hinted at systemic issues underlying his treatment, stating that high-profile individuals often bear the brunt of political and health policy conflicts. Despite the controversies, Djokovic returned to form later in 2022, capturing the Wimbledon title.
While his stance on vaccination continues to divide opinion, Djokovic remains firm about his autonomy over health decisions. Australian authorities have not commented on his allegations, and no investigations into the poisoning claims have been announced.
