Aussie Open facing delay

The sports minister for Victoria state says the 2021 Australian Open in Melbourne will ‘‘most likely’’ be delayed by aweek or two from its scheduled start of January 18. Martin Pakula also said negotiations between various levels of governments and tennis officials were close to a conclusion and that the first grand slam tennis tournament of the yearwas expected to go ahead. ‘‘There’s a number of potential dates on the table. I’ve seen reports that suggest that it’s likely to be delayed by aweek or two. I think that’s stillmost likely,’’ Pakula said yesterday. Tournament director and Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley lastweekend said the final dates should be confirmed within twoweeks.