Aaron Rodgers Doubles Down on Djokovic Support, Vaccine Mandate Opposition
Aaron Rodgers is sticking to his principles.
The future Hall-of-Fame quarterback is a staunch supporter of tennis superstar Novak Djokovic and he firmly opposes the since-lifted vaccine mandate that prevented the 23-time major champion from entering the United States last summer.
Rodgers and multiple New York Jets' teammates visited the Billie Jean King USTA Tennis Center for some live US Open action on Sunday in Flushing.
While attending Djokovic's fourth-round singles match in Arthur Ashe Stadium, Gang Green's starting field general snapped a photo of the No. 2 seed preparing to serve. Rodgers proceeded to post the photo, after making a few notable edits, on his @aaronrodgers12 Instagram story.
Rodgers drew a red line through a courtside Moderna advertisement that was visible in the shot. He also labeled Djokovic a GOAT (greatest of all-time) while overlaying text that read "#novaxdjokovic." The reference seemingly applauded Djokovic's steadfast, and courageous, refusal to take the unproven COVID vaccine despite losing the opportunity to compete at the 2022 US Open as a result.
On Thursday in Florham Park, Rodgers was asked to explain his "motivation" behind the social media statement, and he offered a logically-sound response.
Instagram / @aaronrodgers12
"I am a big fan on Novak. I took that photo and then realized that there was a little Moderna sign in the background," said Rodgers while speaking to reporters in the Jets' locker room. "Novak is one of the most fit athletes in the world and I think anybody looking at the situation realizes how ridiculous to not allow him into the country with his level of fitness and the way he takes care of his body."
Rodgers has a history of speaking out in support of medical freedom and vaccine choice. He gave a detailed interview on the topic last summer on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
"Like him [Djokovic], I care about health, and I was just having a little bit of fun with it," said Rodgers on Thursday.
Djokovic, who has won his last two singles matches in straight sets, faces American Ben Shelton in the Men's Semifinal Round on September 8 at 3:00 pm ET. The Serbian-born 36-year-old is chasing a fourth US Open crown.
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