“I understand why they may be frustrated, it’s been hard for them”- Barty on local outrage after Novak Djokovic’s CONTROVERSIAL medical exemption

Novak Djokovic has absolutely dominated in 2021, having one of the best individual seasons in the history of the sports as he won 3 Grand Slam titles and was the finalist of the 4^th, coming in touching distance to become only the second man to win all the Grand Slams in a calendar year and achieve the incredible ‘Calendar Slam’.

Djokovic started the season with 17 Grand Slam titles to his name and ended the season leveling with the rest of the Big Three that comprises himself, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the new season would be who among the three wins their 21^st Grand Slam title first.

Barty sympathies with fans’ frustrations

Despite having an exceptional 2021, Djokovic was marred in controversy towards the end of his season when he refused to reveal his vaccination status to the authorities ahead of the Australian Open 2022. Due to this decision, the Serb was engaged in a long speculation of whether he would be granted special exemption or not, with contrasting reports emerging from different sources. The matter took many twists and turns, with even the Australian Prime minister getting involved. However, earlier today, the 34-year-old was granted an exemption for the tournament, ending the speculations.

Aussie No.1 Ashleigh Barty has also shared her thoughts on the matter. The World No.1 said that she sympathised with the frustrations of the Australian locals. Given the severe lockdowns locals endured during the Coronavirus pandemic, the Australian public have understandably been outraged by the hypocrisy of the authorities and special treatment for certain people.

“As we’ve seen a little bit in the last day or so, from the Australian public, I know how hard it has been for Australians all around our nation, but in particular Victorians have had a real rough trot over the last 18 months and two years. I understand why they may be frustrated with the decision,”– said Barty.

The state of Victoria, home to the city of Melbourne, reports a double-dose vaccination rate of 93 percent for residents over the age of 12, thus understandably upsetting the locals over Djokovic’s exemption.

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