‘I will sacrifice Slams’ – Novak Djokovic puts GOAT race at risk with vaccine stance

Novak Djokovic has revealed that he is not only willing to miss future Slam events if he remains unvaccinated, but that he would also be prepared to give up his shot at coming ahead in the Slam race. 

The world number one has remained quiet since his deportation from Australia ahead of the Australian Open last month.

Now, Djokovic has spoken in greater detail than ever about his future within the sport if he remains steadfast in his stance.

“I was never against vaccination,” he told journalist Amol Rajan in an interview with the BBC.

“But I’ve always supported the freedom to choose what you put in your body.

“For me that is essential.”

As evidenced by recent news, Djokovic is at risk of missing the remaining Majors of 2022 due to his unvaccinated status.

Rajan directly prompted the 20-time Slam winner on the GOAT race, asking: “Ultimately, are you prepared to forego the chance to be the greatest player that ever picked up a racket, statistically, because you feel so strongly about this jab?”

“Yes,” Djokovic replied succinctly.

When asked if he would be willing to pay the price of missing the upcoming French Open and Wimbledon, Djokovic again responded: “Yes, that is the price that I’m willing to pay.”

In explanation, Djokovic continued: “The principles of decision-making on my body are more important than any title, or anything else.

“I’m trying to be in-tune with my body as much as I possibly can.”

On court, Djokovic is set to compete at the upcoming Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, an event where he is a five-time champion.

The ATP 500 event kicks off on 21st February and will also feature former world number one Andy Murray in the draw.

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