Friday February 11: There are a record 446 new Covid-19 cases in the community today. Video / NZ Herald
Surfing legend Kelly Slater has dropped the strongest hint yet that he has become vaccinated against Covid-19 and will surf at Bells Beach this Easter after initially refusing to disclose his vaccination status.
The newly-turned 50-year-old stunned the surfing and sporting world last week when he snared his 56th careertitle at Pipeline in Hawaii.
However, Slater's refusal to disclose his vaccination status had thrown doubt over his ability to clinch a 12th world title this year, given he would need to have had the jab to enter Australia and compete at the two World Surf League events held in Victoria and Western Australia this autumn.
The classic event at Bells Beach is back on the schedule for the first time since 2019 after being abandoned because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In January, Slater spoke out against the Australia Government's handling of the Novak Djokovic vaccination saga and appeared to question whether the Covid-19 vaccine was effective.
"Maybe Stockholm Syndrome can now change its name to Melbourne/Australia Syndrome," Slater posted on Instagram at the time.
"It's sad to see the celebrated division by the 'virtuous' vaccinated.
"If you're vaccinated why are you concerned/worried about anyone else's status … unless, of course, it doesn't protect you? Or you're scared you'll catch it or upset you had to take the risk of vaccination yourself.
"So much brainwashed hatred in people's hearts regardless of vax status."
Kelly Slater after winning the men's competition at Banzai Pipeline on February 05, 2022, in Haleiwa, Hawaii. Photo / Getty Images
Despite his previous critiques, Slater hinted this week that he had rolled up his sleeve and received the jab, declaring he would attend the World Surf League's two Australian events across April and May.
"I'll see you in Australia," Slater told Reuters from Hawaii.
"[My vaccination status] is an important question, and there's a reason I'm not talking about it that is personal. I do believe that medical privacy is a real thing. But I think my answer that I'll see you in Australia answers that."
Slater said he was "planning on surfing the rest of the tour" but that he wasn't fixated on claiming a 12th title.
"You know, I'm not thinking about 12 [titles]," he said.
"I mean it's in the back of my mind and having a win under my belt, if I get a couple more good results then yeah, I'll make that top five.
"I'll deal with that challenge when I get there, if I make it that far."
World Surf League Asia Pacific did not immediately return News Corp Australia's request for comment on Slater's place in the Australian events.
