Novak Djokovic 'well prepared' for tennis return in Dubai despite an emotional month following deportation

Novak Djokovic says despite weeks away from competition and the emotional distress over his recent detention and deportation, he feels he's at his «peak» as he returns to action.

The world number one was upbeat at a news conference on the eve of the Dubai Tennis Championship on Sunday, his first tournament since being ejected from Australia and missing the year's first grand slam over his vaccination status.

«It wasn't really difficult for me to pick up a racquet and go out and practice the sport and just play,» the Serbian told reporters. 

«I'm as well prepared as I possibly can be.»

Djokovic's presence brings an unusual amount of scrutiny to the annual tournament near Dubai International Airport and authorities also apparently took extraordinary steps of their own.

Organisers blocked most photographers and videographers from Djokovic's news conference without explanation.

Earlier, security guards were out in force at Djokovic's practice, questioning reporters who tried to grab a glimpse of him on the court.

These restrictions were not in place, the guards acknowledged, for any other players.

The saga of Djokovic's cancelled travel visa on the eve of the Australian Open drew intense interest around the world, shining a light on how public officials approach pandemic restrictions and exemptions.

But Djokovic admitted the dramatic legal dispute also took a personal toll.

«There were lots of emotions after I came back from Australia,» he said.

«It was strange. I was disappointed, I was sad about the way it all has played out and the way I left the country.»

Djokovic's fierce commitment to stay unvaccinated against the coronavirus for the time being means he could be barred from competing in a series of upcoming grand slams.

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