Novak Djokovic’s Biographer Thinks Tennis Star Could Be ‘Getting Vaccinated’ Ahead Of French Open

Novak Djokovic’s biographer says he thinks the world No. 1 could be “getting vaccinated” ahead of the French Open this spring. Djokovic is the defending champion in Paris.

“From what I have heard from those around him, I think he is getting vaccinated,” Daniel Muksch, who has written A Lifetime At War, a book chronicling the journey of the 20-time Grand Slam champion that comes out later this year, reportedly said on Austrian TV station Servus TV.

“Maybe the final in Melbourne also contributed to that. Rafael Nadal’s 21 is driving him, no question.”

Djokovic’s refusal to get vaccinated caused him to be deported from Australia ahead of last month’s Australian Open.

Without him, Nadal went on to win a record 21st major title in five sets in last Sunday’s final against world No. 2 Daniil Medvedev.

Djokovic is next slated to play in Dubai beginning Feb. 21 and then could potentially play the so-called “Sunshine Swing” in Indian Wells and Miami in March — assuming he’s cleared to come to the U.S. and compete.

“Look, I’m happy for anybody anywhere to be vaccinated and if in some small way as a country we have encouraged Novak or any other individual to do that then that’s great,” Australian Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt Hunt told Sunrise.

“But you know what’s much more important? I think that will encourage more people who have been hesitant to be vaccinated and that would be the real win out of this.

“I hadn’t heard that. I’m delighted if that is the case. But to everybody, doesn’t matter where you are, whether you are overseas or in Australia, first dose, second dose, booster, everything you are eligible for, it will help protect you. Please come forward.”

As for the French Open, which begins May 22, new virus rules in France initially looked like they could complicate Djokovic’s ability to play there if unvaccinated. France then banned tourists who haven’t been boosted against the virus. It remains unclear if Djokovic would get boosted on top of any initial vaccination.

The Serb’s status for Wimbledon and the U.S. Open remains in limbo, pending vaccine mandates in those countries going forward.

Nadal has won 13 of his 21 major titles at Roland Garros and could win a 22nd Grand Slam title this spring. He would be the clear favorite if Djokovic is unable to play. The Serb beat the Spaniard in the semifinals last year, after Nadal clobbered Djokovic in the 2020 French final.

“I want to hold the record for most Grand Slam titles,” Nadal said. “This is a competition and I am competitive. But whatever happens with me, Roger and Djokovic, we all have achieved our dreams.”