Advantage, Coronavirus Breaking Point

Advantage, Coronavirus – Breaking Point is the conclusion to my short online sports docu-series, exploring how COVID-19 had affected the sporting world. In this episode, we explore one of tennis’ most controversial sagas: the deportation of Novak Djokovic from Australia before the 2022 Australian Open.

Arriving in the world’s most locked-down city, which required all arrivals to be fully vaccinated, then-World No.1 and reigning champion Novak Djokovic arrived unvaccinated and was eventually detained and deported. This docu-episode delves into the full deportation saga, providing an in-depth examination of Djokovic's vaccination stance, along with candid insights from some of tennis' most respected figures.

In the documentary, former Australian strategist coach to Novak Djokovic, Craig O'Shannessy, passionately defends Australia’s stance and shares his personal relationship with Djokovic, offering unique insight into the tennis star’s mindset. Tennis commentator Nick Lester presents a case for the deportation, explaining why Djokovic, given his status, shouldn’t have been allowed entry. Meanwhile, Nino Severino draws comparisons between Djokovic and other high-profile figures who set examples during the COVID era.

One of my proudest moments was interviewing Nick Lester moments after the news broke about Djokovic’s deportation, capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions and opinions of one of the leading English-speaking tennis commentators. This interview came amidst one of the sport's most talked-about and controversial headlines.

I also had the privilege of speaking to a passionate Australian, Craig O'Shannessy, via Zoom. At the time, he was in Melbourne, the world's most locked-down city, and on-site at the Australian Open. O'Shannessy provided a defence of Melbourne's COVID restrictions and vaccines while offering rare insight into Djokovic's mindset—an invaluable perspective few are honoured to gain.