‘On this occasion I think he is making a big mistake in not getting vaccinated’
Boris Becker has said that Novak Djokovic will be making a “big mistake” if he refuses to get vaccinated.
Djokovic was stopped at Melbourne airport by the Australian Border Force on Wednesday after a mix-up with his visa application and was set to be deported from the country, but will now wait until Monday to hear the final outcome.
The men’s world number one has continuously refused to confirm if he has received a vaccination against Covid-19 – a requirement for people entering Australia and playing in the Australian Open.
Becker, who is the Serb’s former coach, has warned the 20-time Grand Slam champion that not getting vaccinated against Covid-19 could risk ruining his career.
“On this occasion I think he is making a big mistake in not getting vaccinated,” he told the Daily Mail.
It is one that threatens what remains of his career and his chance to cement himself as the greatest player of all time.
“Four times I sat in his box as he won the Australian Open, so I am fully aware of his great strengths as an incredible competitor. I also think he has a great character that can easily be misunderstood.
“Yet these strengths can also be weaknesses. The same incredible determination which I saw win so many close matches can be a vulnerability with his stubbornness.”
The German then continued to say that he didn’t want Djokovic to look back in the future and regret his decision.
He said: “He is incredibly strong-willed, with very firm beliefs. If he does not, then in 10 years he will look back on it and realise he made a mistake.
“It is not just about Australia. The fact is that we are living in a different world and he is going to find it very hard to live the life of a professional tennis player travelling around without the vaccination.
“Those are the rules, whether one likes them or not, and you have to accept it. Maybe one day we will get back to a more normal situation, but at 34 he does not have much time left to pursue his goals.”
Related links:
- Novak Djokovic’s dad says son’s treatment in Australia is like Jesus’ crucifixion
- Novak Djokovic will be deported if he lied about vaccine, vows Australia’s deputy PM
- Australian government explains why Novak Djokovic’s visa was cancelled
