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The political leanings of Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic remain a mystery. But that’s totally besides the point. Djokovic, or “Nole,” as his fans call him, is a hero. This is a man who not only talked the talk but walked the walk, taking a stand for freedom of choice and saying “no” to the vaccine mandates. He was prepared to risk everything on principle. Djokovic declined the vaccine, and despite all the governments of the world coming down on him, and despite the consequence of having to forego precious opportunities to compete in and win Grand Slam tournaments which are instrumental to cementing his spot in the annals of tennis history.

Here is his now legendary exchange with a sports journalist who simply can’t believe his discipline and dedication to principle when it comes to complying with the vaccine mandates:

Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have dominated Grand Slam tennis past decade and a half. If Federer is known and celebrated for his elegance and effortlessness, and Nadal is known for his sheer athleticism, Nole has distinguished himself with a mental toughness that can almost seem inhuman. The same mental toughness that enabled the young Djokovic to rise to tennis superstardom from war-torn Serbia, and that enables him to come back from seemingly impossible situations in match play, has clearly played a decisive role in his ability to stand tall against the extraordinary pressure brought to bear on elite athletes to submit to the vaccine.

Despite Nole’s sacrifices on behalf of principle — almost unheard of in the professional sports world, Nole managed to clinch an historic and almost unbelievable 24th Grand Slam title at this year’s U.S. Open in New York.

Djokovic had previously claimed the men’s record for number of Grand Slam victories at this year’s French Open, where he claimed his 23rd major title, surpassing his tied record of 22 slams with Rafael Nadal. With 24 Grand Slam victories under his belt, Djokovic is now tied with women’s tennis player Margaret Court for most all-time slams won (note it is easier for women to accumulate slams due to shorter matches and different level of competition).

The chances of Djokovic notching down yet another slam are quite strong, thanks to his fitness and mental determination. At 36, he’s still crushing the young guns, as he demonstrated in his decisive victory over the much-hyped American nineteen-year-old Ben Shelton, which he celebrated in style with a brutally effective phone gesture that mocked Shelton’s signature celebration.

Here’s what Djokovic had to say after his recent win:

Novak Djokovic won’t consider retiring until he’s getting his ass kicked by young guys in Grand Slams:

“It probably sounds cocky or arrogant but I’m not really surprised. I know how much work & dedication I put into trying to be in this position. I know I deserve this. I always believe in myself, in my own capabilities as a tennis player to be able to deliver when it matters. I’m not really surprised to be honest. I feel good physically. I’ve been as good as I’ve been in years & years. Age is just a number. That phrase is really resonating with me at the moment. I don’t want to even consider leaving tennis or thinking about an end if I’m still at the top of the game. I’ll probably consider doing that if I get my ass kicked by young guys in Grand Slams in the years to come.”

Watch:

And if you’re not already entertained, get this: one of Djokovic’s winners was featured as the Moderna “shot of the day.” How’s that for a twist of irony? It seems like Djokovic has served Big Pharma a dose of their own medicine.

Djokovic is truly a legend in more ways than one.

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