“I am extremely sorry for each individual case of infection. I hope that it will not complicate anyone’s health situation and that everyone will be fine,” said the athlete.
Novak Djokovic has tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Serbian athlete revealed his diagnosis on Tuesday, writing on his official website that he is not showing symptoms, and that his wife Jelena also tested positive, while his two children did not.
Djokovic’s announcement comes days after a tennis event that he organized in Zadar, Croatia, came under fire for potentially exposing athletes to the virus during the pandemic. According to CNN, participants Grigor Dimitrov and Borna Coric both tested positive, prompting the quick cancelation of the Adria Tour tournament.
“Everything we did in the past month, we did with a pure heart and sincere intentions. Our tournament meant to unite and share a message of solidarity and compassion throughout the region,” Djokovic said in the statement.
The tennis pro said the event was set up when he thought the virus had “weakened, believing that the conditions for hosting the Tour had been met.”
“It was all born with a philanthropic idea, to direct all raised funds towards people in need and it warmed my heart to see how everybody strongly responded to this,” he said.
Djokovic added: “Unfortunately, this virus is still present, and it is a new reality that we are still learning to cope and live with. I am hoping things will ease with time so we can all resume lives the way they were.
Source: people.com sports.
