Novak Djokovic has shared his first public message since being detained in Melbourne after his visa to enter Australia was revoked.
“Thank you to people around the world for your continuous support,” the world men’s No.1 tennis player posted as an Instagram Story in the early hours of Saturday morning.
“I can feel it and it is greatly appreciated.”
He also shared a post to fans marking Christmas Day in Serbia, which is January 7.
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It is the first time Djokovic has made any public comment since arriving in Melbourne and being taken into detention by Australian Border Force officials because his COVID-19 vaccine medical exemption did not meet requirements.
He is currently being held at an immigration detention hotel in Melbourne ahead of a court hearing on Monday to challenge the decision to revoke his visa.
Djokovic’s wife posted a message on social media earlier on Friday, also thanking people for their support.
“It’s Christmas today for us, my wishes are for everyone to be healthy, happy, safe and together with families. We wish we are all together today, but my consolation is that at least we are healthy. And we will grow from this experience,” Jelena Djokovic said on Instagram along with a photo with her husband and a dog on a beach.
“Thank you dear people, all around the world for using your voice to send love to my husband. I am taking a deep breath to calm down and find gratitude (and understanding) in this moment for all that is happening. The only law that we should all respect across every single border is Love and respect for another human being.
“Love and forgiveness is never a mistake but a powerful force. Wishing you all well!”
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Australian Border Force on Friday night said it had concluded an investigation into two more people linked to the Australian Open who have had their visas revoked.
One is veteran Czech Republic player Renata Voracova, who has since decided to return home instead of challenging the decision. The second person is believed to be an official.