NOVAK Djokovic said he is “extremely disappointed” by the decision to be deported from Australia, but will comply and leave the country.

Three Federal Court judges earlier dismissed the unvaccinated Serbian superstar’s last-gasp attempt to overturn the government’s cancellation of his visa.

“I respect the court ruling and will cooperate with the relevant authorities in relation to my departure from the country,” said the 34-year-old world number one in a statement on the eve of the Australian Open.

In an 11-day battle over his lack of a Covid-19 vaccination that captured global attention, the tennis ace had his visa cancelled, reinstated on a procedural issue and cancelled again by the government.

He spent his first few nights in Australia at a notorious detention centre in Melbourne, walked free to practice on the courts of the Australian Open for several days after he won back his visa, and then returned into detention.

“I will now be taking some time to rest and recuperate, before making any further comment beyond this,” said Djokovic.

The defending champion flew into Melbourne on January 5, hoping to win the title for a 10th time, in the process becoming the first men’s player in the history of the game to grab 21 Grand Slam titles.

“I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me, and I hope that we can all now focus on the game and tournament I love,” said Djokovic, who had been scheduled to play as the first seed tomorrow evening.

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

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, team, supporters, fans and my fellow Serbians for your continued support. You have all been a great source of strength to me.” – AFP, January 16, 2022.