Novak Djokovic Speaks Out About Covid-19 Vaccination Controversy, Claims It Made Him the ...

Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic believes his refusal to get vaccinated against Covid-19 made him a “villain” in the eyes of millions.

In January 2022, Djokovic made headlines when he was deported from Australia due to his vaccination status. Country officials canceled his visa, making him unable to compete in the Australian Open that year. Djokovic claimed he was initially given an exemption to play, but public pressure forced officials to reverse that decision.

For the same reason, he did not compete in the 2022 U.S. Open either.

“I was basically declared as a villain of the world,” Djokovic said on 60 Minutes. “I had, basically, most of the world against me. I had that kind of experience on the tennis court with crowds maybe not cheering me on, but I never had this particular experience before in my life.”

Despite many restrictions being lifted globally, Djokovic has still had difficulties competing in tournaments. Throughout much of 2023, he was still barred from entering the U.S. and had to withdraw from a tournament in California.

Months later, he was finally able to enter the country to once again compete in American tournaments. He won the U.S. Open in September.

Djokovic reiterated that despite what some may say, he’s not against the vaccine. He simply doesn’t want to get it.

“People tried to declare me as anti-vax,” he said. “I’m not anti-vax. No, I’m pro-vax. I’m pro-freedom to choose.”