“Novak Djokovic Will Have to be Vaccinated” – Rafael Nadal

World No.2 Rafael Nadal believes that his arch-rival, Novak Djokovic, would have to take a vaccine for coronavirus in the future if he wants to continue playing tennis professionally. The Spaniard suggested that Djokovic would not have any choice if the vaccine became mandatory for traveling once the tour resumes.

Recently, Djokovic admitted he is an anti-vaxxer. He opposed the idea of injecting a potential vaccination even if it became mandatory. The Serb explained that he wouldn’t want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine as he was more inclined towards a natural state of wellness.

“It is a matter of following the rules” – Rafael Nadal

Consequently, Nadal suggested that everyone has the freedom to choose their own path. However, as a part of the tour, Djokovic would have to abide by the rules of the circuit.

“I do not know. I am nobody. No one can demand of anyone. Each one is free. But the truth is if you belong to a circuit, perhaps one has to be governed by the rules that the circuit requires,” Nadal said in an interview to La Voz de Galicia.

“So if the tour obliges to vaccinate to be able to travel in order to protect everyone, Djokovic will have to be vaccinated if he wants to continue playing tennis at the highest level,” he continued.

“I mean him, but everyone, me too. Each one will have to comply exactly like now we have to stay home. If the ATP or the ITF forces us to get a vaccine to play tennis, then we will have to get it. Just as we have restrictions on not taking too many medications for obvious doping control issues. It is a matter of following the rules,” Nadal concluded.

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Health organizations have yet to develop a vaccine for COVID-19. However, it will be interesting to see Djokovic’s vaccination stance if and when it is ready.