World No 1 Novak Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open titles in his illustrious career but amazingly could find himself banned from the Grand Slam event in January due to his stance on the Covid-19 vaccine.
There are discussions between tournament organisers and Government officials to potentially implement mandatory vaccines for players to help protect against Coronavirus. Djokovic is reportedly hesitant to receive the vaccine and has regularly refused to answer whether or not he has been jabbed. It is believed that other players on tour are also unvaccinated but none of them with the status of Djokovic.
The Serb has been in imperious form in 2021 claiming three Grand Slams, culminating with him beating Matteo Berrettini at the Wimbledon Championships in July to claim his 20th major title. His victory at the All England Club brought him level in the all-time standings alongside Roger Federer & Rafael Nadal.
The next couple of months may prove extremely interesting surrounding the vaccine requirement for the first Grand Slam of 2022. Although the Victorian State Government appears likely to favour implementing the mandatory vaccine stance, Craig Tiley, the Head of Tennis Australia, is a little hesitant with the plan due to a potential drop in player attendance. If the plans do go ahead it will surely test the resolve of Djokovic who would love to claim his record breaking 21st Grand Slam on the Rod Laver Arena court in January.
“Novak shows some emotion” by toga is licensed under CC BY 2.0.