Razeen Gutta
Novak Djokvic is willing to give up being the best tennis player of all-time by skipping upcoming Grand Slams if vaccination is a condition for participating.
The world number one is set to return to action in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships this month following his deportation saga in Australia.
In an exclusive interview with The BBC, Djokovic was asked if he would sacrifice playing in events like Wimbledon and the French Open due to his stance on the Covid-19 vaccination.
“Yes, that is the price that I’m willing to pay,” he answered.
The 34-year-old, who missed the Australian Open for being unvaccinated, added that he is not an anti-vaxxer.
“I was never against vaccination. I understand that globally everyone is trying to put a big effort into handling this virus and hopefully seeing an end to the virus soon,” he said.
“But I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body.”
Djokovic also said he hoped the vaccination requirements in certain tournaments would change because he is hoping to play the game for many years to come.
However, the Serbian said he was ready to leave behind the opportunity of becoming the greatest tennis player of all time.
“The principles of decision-making regarding my body are more important than any title. I’m trying to be in tune with my body as much as I possibly can,” he said.
Rafael Nadal recently made history by becoming the first male tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles, a record Djokovic long thought he would break.
The pain of seeing his rival win the Australian Open was thought to be enough for Djokovic to get the vaccine but it seems he is sticking to his decision.
Dubai tournament director Salah Tahlak has confirmed that he has no concerns over the Serbian’s vaccination status.
“I think it’s great to have him back. I know the whole world has been against him but he is number one in the world and he’s a former champion in Dubai,” Tahlak told The National.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships get underway on 21 February and with Covid-19 vaccinations not being a requirement to participate Djokovic will be looking to win the competition for the sixth time.
Image source: @Tennis365
