The World no.1 Novak Djokovic is not sure whether he will defend his Australian Open title in 2022. Djokovic has won nine titles at the Australian Open and he is well known as the King of Melbourne for his exemplary record. However, Djokovic doesn’t want to get vaccinated against Covid-19 to be eligible to play at the Australian Open.
The Serbian added that he doesn’t want to reveal whether he has been vaccinated or not. According to the current vaccination laws in Australia, the players will have to quarantine upon arrival and be vaccinated, with Victoria state making the vaccine mandatory for all athletes. Thus, if Djokovic fails to show his vaccination proof, he may not be able to participate in the Australian Open.
“Things being as they are, I still don’t know if I will go to Melbourne,” Djokovic told the online edition of Serbian daily Blic. “I will not reveal my status whether I have been vaccinated or not, it is a private matter and an inappropriate inquiry.
“People go too far these days in taking the liberty to ask questions and judge a person. Whatever you say ‘yes, no, maybe, I am thinking about it’, they will take advantage.” “Of course I want to go [to Australia],” Djokovic said.
“Australia is my most successful Grand Slam tournament. I want to compete, I love this sport and I am still motivated. “I am following the situation regarding the Australian Open and I understand the final decision [on COVID-related restrictions] will be made in two weeks. I believe there will be a lot of restrictions just like this year, but I doubt there will be too many changes.
“My manager, who is in contact with the Australian Tennis Federation, tells me they are trying to improve the conditions for everyone, both for those who have been vaccinated and those who have not.”
It will be a huge blow if Djokovic goes on to miss the Australian Open. Djokovic could be next seen in action in Nitto ATP Finals, which will be played in Turin from November 14 to 21.
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