Players get okay to train in quarantine
Melbourne – Tennis Australia (TA) has been granted permission by the Victoria state government to allow players to train during their 14-day quarantine ahead of the Australian Open, local media reported yesterday.
Organisers have been in lengthy discussions with authorities over the Covid-19 protocols to be established for those arriving in Australia ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year, which is slated to be held from 18-31 January.
State officials on Wednesday confirmed the Melbourne Park tournament would go ahead, though it would likely take place a week or two after the scheduled start date and that players would have to undergo quarantine.
The Age newspaper, citing an unnamed source with knowledge of the discussions, reported that players would be allowed to train during their quarantine period but would have to “strictly adhere” to health guidelines.
Tennis Australia did not immediately comment on the report.
Men’s No 1 Novak Djokovic (pictured) recently called on the authorities to ensure players are allowed to train during quarantine, while Russia’s Daniil Medvedev said it would be “dangerous” to be confined to a hotel room for the two weeks prior to a Grand Slam.–