Tennis stars told they’ll stay under Djok and key
AUSTRALIAN authorities have told players forced to quarantine before the Australian Open they will not receive any special treatment, despite a reported attempt by Novak Djokovic to have the restrictions relaxed.
A total of 72 players are enduring 14 days of strict isolation in Melbourne after positive coronavirus tests for passengers on three of the charter flights that arrived in the country last week ahead of the Australian Open.
Djokovic, who is in quarantine in Adelaide although not under such tough restrictions, is said to have asked about a reduction in the time players must spend in isolation, permission to see coaches and moving athletes to private houses with practice facilities.
Victorian premier Daniel Andrews
said: ‘People are free to provide a list of demands. But the answer is no.
‘I know there’s been a bit of chatter from a number of players about the rules. Well, the rules apply to them as they apply to everybody else. That was the condition on which they came. There’s no special treatment.’
Australian media also reported a player was among four further positive tests among people who arrived on the flights. Complaints have not gone down well in a city that has endured such a strict lockdown, with Bernard Tomic’s girlfriend Vanessa Sierra ridiculed for posting a video in which she says her biggest concern is having to wash her own hair rather than visit the salon twice a week.
Djokovic, who set up a rival player association to the ATP last year, came under fire after he being among a number of players to catch coronavirus on his disastrous Adria Tour.
Australian star Nick Kyrgios wrote on Twitter: ‘Djokovic is a tool. I don’t mind Bernie but his Mrs obviously has no perspective, ridiculous scenes.’