Novak Djokovic drama eclipsed by Australian Open’s uplifting finale

During the first weeks of the new tennis season, the top players are usually at their most relaxed. As they step forward into the new year after quality time away from competition, they arrive in Australia before the toll of constant travel, countless matches and numerous frustrating losses leaves its mark.

But this was no normal Australian Open. The tournament began in the shadow of unprecedented drama as Novak Djokovic’s visa saga played out for nearly two weeks. His building was surrounded by human rights activists protesting for the thirty-plus refugees detained indefinitely, hundreds of Serbian-Australians and numerous anti-mandate protesters. After many long, dull court hearings expedited at the speed of light, it ended with Djokovic being deported from the country on the eve of the tournament.

This had nothing to do with any of the other players, many of whom had not been vaccinated a few months ago but chose to do so in order to compete, yet the vibes across the Australian Open at the beginning of the tournament were off. Djokovic’s deportation loomed large, with players constantly peppered with questions about him. Naomi Osaka summed up the mood as she passed on giving an answer. “Is my opinion going to help anything?” she said.

Yet what unfolded over the following two weeks is an affirmation of the sport itself and the moments of joy, levity and hope it brings. From the first rounds of a grand slam tournament when 256 men and women play for the titles, almost every round has the potential for someone to enjoy one of the best days of their life.

One of the most poignant stories of the fortnight was Alizé Cornet’s long-awaited moment in the sun. While contesting her 60th consecutive grand slam tournament at 32