Tennis Star Novak Djokovic Praised For More Than His 7th Wimbledon Championship

This weekend, Novak Djokovic won his 7^th Wimbledon championship. And while the man is an incredible athlete, he is garnering praise for another reason following his impressive win. Djokovic, who is in impeccable health, made the decision not to receive the COVID vaccine. Based on personal health and risk assessment, he determined that he did not need the minimally tested therapeutic and that the risks thereof outweighed the potential benefits. As arguably the world’s greatest male tennis player, his decision limited his professional choices, notably in Australia where he was detained and then deported due to his vaccination status.

After his incredible win, Djokovic said in an interview,

“I understand that being unvaccinated today, I’m unable to travel to most of the tournaments… that is the price I’m willing to pay… The principles of decision making on my body are more important than any title, or anything else.”

Despite overwhelming praise for his willingness to take a stance and make a statement against vaccine mandates, some have pointed out that, as a wealthy elite athlete, he is more able to make this decision and the subsequent sacrifices his decision would bring while so many working-class people around the world are not able to afford to take such a stand. It would mean losing their jobs and so much more.

But that’s precisely the point. Djokovic, who is in a position to take a stand, was willing to do so in order to fight mandates that negatively impact people who aren’t in a position to take that same stand. He was willing to sacrifice professionally in place of so many who could not afford to do so. I don’t think his wealth makes his sacrifice any less meaningful. Rather, it is poignant that he stood up for so many who can’t stand up for themselves.