Novak Djokovic Skips U.S. Open Over Vaccine Requirement, Says He Needs To Put His Health First

Many call Novak Djokovic the greatest tenner player in the game. Last week, he won the Wimbledon tournament to win his 21st career Grand Slam and seventh Wimbledon title. He’s sacrificing legendary status because he refuses to vaccinate.

He made the news earlier this year when he was detained in Australia. After claiming a vaccine exemption for the Australian Open, a legal battle ensued, leaving him arrested and deported by the Australian government. As millions across the globe were losing their livelihoods because of vaccine mandates, Djokovic became an icon for standing with them.

The tennis player skipped an opportunity to surpass legend Rafael Nadal in Grand Slam wins by missing the tournament.

He’s now making news for skipping the U.S. open for the same reason. Under Biden’s mandate, the United States requires proof for nonimmigrant noncitizens to enter the country. Djokovic has made it clear that he still has no plans to get vaccinated, citing his necessity to maintain excellent health to compete. History will have to wait.

The following is an excerpt from an interview with Djokovic

Interviewer: "Are you prepared to forego the chance to be the greatest player ever to pick up the racket because you feel so strongly about the vaccine?"

Djokovic: "Yes, I do. That’s the price I’m willing to pay. The principles of decision-making of my body are more important than any title or anything else."