Serbia's Novak Djokovic wears a face mask as he listens to the national anthems prior to a Davis Cup group F match between Serbia and Austria in Innsbruck, Austria, Friday, Nov. 26, 2021. (Photo/Michael Probst)
Novak Djokovic has made it clear once again that he would rather miss tournaments than be forced to take a jab
The 34-year old Serbian has been in the spotlight for reasons off the court ever since he was deported back from Australia.
Novak Djokovic had gone to Australia aiming for his 21st Grand Slam title when the country’s immigration minister personally cancelled his visa because the athlete wasn’t vaccinated.
The next grand slam is the French Open next month and the authorities have clearly stated unvaccinated players won’t be allowed to participate. Djokovic though is clear on his stance and has categorically refused to get vaccinated in order to get permission to play.
Djokovic opened up on this issue for the first time in an interview with the BBC. He said missing competitions such as the French Open over his jab status is a price that he’s willing to pay. “I was never against vaccination but I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body”, said the 20-time Grand Slam Champion.
Novak Djokovic has been widely criticised by the media and the general public. The stance to not get vaccinated has done his image no good. On top of that, there were allegations that Djokovic attended a party with children and was later Covid positive and still travelled to Australia. Djokovic has been very quiet so far on all the allegations and speculations.
Although the media reports haven’t been very positive, the Serbian believes his interview with BBC is changing things. He is happy that the larger audience has finally been able to hear his side of the story. Djokovic has made it clear that his stance still remains the same in spite of all the speculations and criticisms.
Djokovic is currently playing at the Dubai Tennis Championships. He won his 1st round match against Lorenzo Musetti 6-3,6-3.
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