Bradley Beal reveals he hasn’t received the coronavirus vaccine

Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal revealed Monday afternoon he has not received the COVID-19 vaccine.

On a media zoom call, the 28-year old cited “personal reasons” as to why he opted not to get the vaccine despite contracting it in July and missing out on the chance to compete for USA Basketball at the Olympics this summer.

Beal, who shared his parents and older brothers are vaccinated, said he doesn’t feel any pressure to get the vaccine.

“I don’t think you can pressure anybody to make a decision about their body or what they put into their body,” he told reporters.

The guard did admit the league’s guidelines and protocols have made things challenging.

“They kind of make it difficult on us to where they kind of force us in a way to want to get it but at the end of the day I talk it over with my family and we make a decision we think is best for us.”

Beal, who lost his sense of smell after contracting COVID-19, is aware that he could contract COVID-19 again and will join the group of players who will have to adhere to the NBA’s protocols.

According to the Associated Press, unvaccinated players will have to undergo testing — one test on practice or travel days, and at least one test on game day. Additionally, unvaccinated players will have to wear masks at team facilities and during travel.