By Adrianna Outlaw | Monday, April 20, 2020
Novak Djokovic says his opposition to vaccines will force him into a tough decision should a potential coronavirus vaccine become mandatory for international travel.
Photo credit: Mark Peterson/Corleve
The world's leading scientists are working overtime to try to create a coronavirus vaccine.
The world's best player suggests a potential vaccine could delay his return to tournament tennis.
More: Tennis Is Safest Sport For Coronavirus Comeback
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic says his opposition to vaccines will force him into a tough decision should a potential coronavirus vaccine become mandatory for international travel.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a leading advisor on the White House coronavirus task force, says a vaccine for COVID-19 is likely a year to a year-and-a-half away from development.
Still, Djokovic suggests he would be wary of taking a vaccine in order to travel the global tour.
"Personally I am opposed to vaccination and I wouldn't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine in order to be able to travel," Djokovic said in a Facebook Live discussion with fellow Serbian players Viktor Troicki, Janko Tipsarevic and Dusan Lajovic. "But if it becomes compulsory, what will happen? I will have to make a decision.
"I have my own thoughts about the matter and whether those thoughts will change at some point, I don't know."
The ATP and WTA jointly announced continued suspension of the pro circuit until at least July 13th.
"Hypothetically, if the season was to resume in July, August or September, though unlikely, I understand that a vaccine will become a requirement straight after we are out of strict quarantine and there is no vaccine yet," Djokovic said.
World No. 2 Rafael Nadal said he prefers the Tour resumes only when safety of players, fans and staff can be ensured. The 19-time Grand Slam champion also said he would be "delighted" to play behind closed doors without fans if the game's governing bodies deem that the safest way to eventually try to resume play.
ATP Player Council president Djokovic says he prefers waiting until the coronavirus surge is stopped and it's safe to travel again.
Hall of Famer Amelie Mauresmo is one of several players who have advocated tennis remain suspended until a vaccine is produced.
Last month, Mauresmo tweeted "no vaccine=no tennis."