Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has once again brought his controversial stance on the COVID-19 vaccine into the public discourse, offering fresh insights into his decision-making process ahead of the US Open.
Djokovic’s latest comments are featured in the Amazon Prime documentary, “Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter,” where he reiterates his refusal to take the vaccine, a decision that led to him missing several high-profile tournaments, including the Australian Open and US Open for two consecutive years, as well as the Indian Wells and Miami Open.
The Serbian star’s unvaccinated status became a global flashpoint in 2022 when he was deported from Australia, resulting in his exclusion from the Australian Open. While an initial three-year travel ban was later waived, allowing him to compete in 2023, the saga underscored the significant personal and professional cost of his choice.
Djokovic’s unwavering stance
In the documentary, Djokovic firmly defends his position, emphasizing his health and personal freedom as core reasons. “Because I didn’t need it. Why should I get the vaccine? I’m healthy, I’m an athlete. I had corona. I had immunity. I wasn’t a threat to anyone. There was no reason for me to get vaccinated,” Djokovic stated, as reported by GiveMeSport.
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He further elaborated on his belief in individual autonomy. “It’s my freedom to choose which is that fundamental right that you have as a human being on this planet – the freedom to choose – which was taken from a lot of people,” he added. This echoes his earlier sentiments from 2020, where he declared, “Personally, I’m opposed to vaccination and I wouldn’t want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine in order to be able to travel.”
Djokovic had previously contracted COVID-19 in 2020. That same year, he faced criticism for organizing the Adria Tour exhibition tournament in Serbia and Croatia, an event where several players, including Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric, and Viktor Troicki, subsequently tested positive for the virus.
Impact on a historic career
Despite the periods of forced absence from the tour, Djokovic’s career achievements remain unparalleled. He holds a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles, comprising 10 Australian Opens, seven Wimbledons, four US Opens, and three French Opens. He has also spent a record 428 weeks as world No. 1 and secured Olympic singles gold in 2024.
His recent comments serve as a reminder of the contentious period in sports during the pandemic, highlighting the deeply held convictions that shaped decisions for athletes like Djokovic, even when it meant sacrificing opportunities at the pinnacle of their sport.
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