Novak Djokovic aired that he is not too keen on undergoing a compulsory COVID019 test, something that is more likely to be the case if tennis tournaments do resume. However, the former world no. 1 Andy Roddick questions if the Serbian will hold to his word, hinting that it would mean seeing him falling behind tennis icons Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in the all-time Grand Slam charts.
Djokovic justified his stance after garnering mixed reactions on how he felt about COVID-19 testing. However, he said that his decision may be subject to change especially since his profession is on the line. If and when it does become compulsory, the 32-year-old is aware to know that he needs to make a decision.
"I am no expert, but I do want to have an option to chose what’s best for my body. I am keeping an open mind, and I’ll continue to research this topic because it is important and it will affect all of us," Djokovic said.
One person who has a different view on compulsory COVID-19 testing is Roddick. In a report from the Associated Press, the former world no. 1 says he is curious if Djokovic will hold to his word. He does not agree with the Serbian's stand against it and believes passing up Grand Slams due to a vaccine is hard to believe.
"I’ll be curious to see how deep his belief system runs if he’s going to sit out Grand Slams because he doesn’t want to take a vaccination shot," Roddick said.
For now, a COVID-19 vaccine has yet to come out. Also, there is no telling when tennis tournaments will resume. So far, Wimbledon has been canceled and the tournament that could be held next is the French Open in September. Right now, there are more questions than answers as to how (and whether) that prestigious tournament will push through.
For Djokovic, more information about a vaccine could help ease some of his concerns. By then, he should be aware that taking the vaccine is more of a precautionary measure for himself and the people around during games. Right now, the Serbian admits he is trying to learn more about the vaccine before deciding on what option is best for his body.
Most have seen Djokovic's views negatively. But the only way to douse water on the fire surrounding the tennis star is a vaccine. Sadly, there has yet to be one as researchers and scientists scamper to come up with a working COVID-19 cure.
