Novak Djokovic not concerned about Covid-19 risk

James Richardson 01 Jul 2022 8:43 PM

Novak Djokovic in action

Defending champion Novak Djokovic is not concerned that he might join the ranks of the players infected with Covid-19 at Wimbledon.

Marin Cilic, Matteo Berrettini and Roberto Bautista Agut have all been forced out of the tournament with Covid-19 positives.

The health protocols for Wimbledon have been relaxed in line with local standards.

With fewer tests being conducted on site, the risk of an infected person among the Wimbledon staff is quite high but Djokovic says it isn’t something that is on his mind.

Djokovic stormed to a 6-0, 6-3, 6-4, win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic which was his 35th consecutive match triumph on Centre Court.

The Serb says that he hasn’t done much mingling in the city as Wimbledon has held his focus.

“I did visit the city (London) a few times before the tournament started but I’m not overconcerned about anything. I’m just trying to stay healthy, focused and play the tournament.” Djokovic said following his third round win.

“I’m not thinking about whether or not I’m going to catch COVID. But being cautious is something that is a necessity I think for everyone, and particularly because we have been through what we’ve been through in the last two years.”

Meanwhile, Djokovic’s great rival, Rafael Nadal said that he was being extra cautious to avoid exposure to the virus.

“I am not doing many things. Just staying here (at Wimbledon) and staying in the house, not going out at all anymore. That’s part of this challenging world that we are facing in the last couple of years.” Nadal said.

“I am not saying that we are not doing things the proper way because at some point we need to open everything again, we need to be free, have a normal life.”