Novak Djokovic: Better to forego titles than vaccination
Novak Djokovic continues to refuse vaccination against the corona virus - and also subordinates winning further tennis trophies to this attitude.
by SID
last edit: Feb 15, 2022, 09:44 am
"Yes, that's the price I'm willing to pay," said the world number one and 20-time Grand Slam champion in an interview with the BBC when asked if he was also interested in participating in tournaments like Wimbledon because of his conviction or would miss the French Open.
For the first time since his noisy expulsion from Australia last month shortly before the start of the Australian Open, Djokovic spoke publicly in detail.
While the unvaccinated Serb was unable to defend his title in Melbourne, Rafael Nadal crowned himself the sole record Major champion with his 21st Grand Slam title ahead of Djokovic and Switzerland's Roger Federer (both 20 titles).
However, Djokovic does not regret his actions before the Australian Open. "Because the principles of decision making are more important to my body than any title or anything else," he said. "I try to be in tune with my body as much as possible."
Djokovic doesn't rule out vaccination
Nevertheless, he did not completely rule out vaccination against the corona virus in the future. He keeps the possibility open "because we are all trying to find the best possible solution for the end of COVID together". However, the 34-year-old hopes vaccination requirements will change at certain tournaments and he 'can still play for many more years'.
In all likelihood, a corona vaccination will also be a prerequisite for participation in the remaining three Grand Slam tournaments of the year in Paris, Wimbledon and New York. Djokovic wants to make his comeback after the quarrels in Australia next week at the ATP tournament in Dubai.