“I am willing not to play Roland Garros and Wimbledon if the condition is to get vaccinated.” That is the phrase that Novak Djokovic pronounced this Tuesday, February 15, in an interview published by the BBC From london.
The Serbian, who did not participate in the Australian Open for the same reason (he was deported when he was already in Melbourne), was the winner of these same tournaments in 2021 and defends a large number of points. Not participating, consequently, would make him go back in the ATP world ranking, of which he is the leader today.
In addition, before Australia, he shared with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, the record of 20 Grand Slam tournaments won. After the victory in Melbourne, the Spaniard now leads his two rivals.
“Nole” reconfirmed that he has not been vaccinated against the coronavirus and that, for now, he will not. He further said that he will not play in Paris and in London he will be “the price I am willing to pay”. He also pointed out that he understands “the consequences” of his decision.
“I understand the fact of not having a vaccine and that this means that I cannot travel to many of the world’s tournaments,” he added.
Novak Djokovic: I am not anti-vaccine
The 34-year-old tennis player assured that he is not a representative of the “anti-vaccines”, but understands that he has “the freedom to choose what you put in the body”. The argument is the same as that raised by the group of people who are not willing to be vaccinated.
He talked about “being in tune” with his body and that he is always “very careful” about what he eats. And he noted: “Based on all the information I have received, I have decided not to get the vaccine until today.”
Regarding the anti-vaccines, Djokovic said that he is part of that group. “I have never been part of that movement,” he declared. However, he added: “Everyone has the right to choose, to act or to say what they consider appropriate for them.”
“Nole” would not play at Roland Garros and Wimbledon
When asked if he would be willing to skip the French Open (May 21-June 5), he stressed: “That is the price I am willing to pay.”
And when asked about Wimbledon, he said: “Yes, because the principles of decision about my body are more important than titles or other things.”
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