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In a significant development, Serbian Tennis star Novak Djokovic has finally broken his silence on the vaccine row and stated that he is ready to miss out on future tennis trophies than be forced to get a Covid vaccine. Djokovic said that he is not promoting an anti-vax campaign but will pay the price for his ultimate freedom to choose what happens to him.
The Serbian superstar had earlier created global headlines when he was deported from Australia following a legal tussle. The 20-time Grand Slam champion entered Australia to participate in Australia Open and claimed that he had received a medical exemption from getting vaccinated. However, Australian authorities declined to accept his demand and took the firm route to demotivate anti-vaccine support. Djokovic had to indulge in a legal battle with Australian authorities. Eventually, he was deported and was forced to leave the country without participating in the tournament after the Australian judiciary gave a verdict against him.
In his fresh interview given to BBC, Djokovic has been vocal about the right of decision-making on his body is more important than any title. He was found saying, "I am not here to join any anti-vaccine movement, but my battle is for fundamental right. I should be the one to choose what happens with my body, not anyone else."
He further congratulated global authorises for putting so much effort to stop the Covid virus and expressed his hopes of bringing an end to this virus. But he categorically mentioned that being an athlete, he has always watched what he consumes. He said, "Vaccination is probably the biggest effort that was made, but I am fighting for the principle of understanding. I have always carefully assessed everything that comes in my body. From supplements, food, the water that I drink or sports drinks, anything that comes into my body as a fuel," he concluded.
The 34-year old Serbian has not denied the possibility of him getting vaccinated. However, Djokovic is all set to make his return to the court at the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championship later this month, with vaccination is not a mandatory term.