Dimitrov’s positive test for Covid-19 stops tour

FORMER world No 3 Grigor Dimitrov became tennis’s highest-profile player to test positive for Covid-19 last night after his participation in Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour. Players consistently ignored social distancing measures in the exhibition series around the Balkans, especially when socialising outside the tennis. Matches have been taking place under normal conditions, with fans in the stands. Yesterday’s final in Zadar, Croatia, between Djokovic and Andrey Rublev was cancelled, with those involved asked to take tests back at the event hotel. While neither Croatia nor Serbia have been hugely hit by coronavirus, eyebrows have been raised in the tennis world at players continually putting aside distancing considerations, notably when celebrating at a Belgrade nightclub last week. Now back in Monaco, Dimitrov (above), who appeared below form at the latest event in Croatia, posted a message revealing his condition. ‘I want to make sure anyone who has been in contact with me during these past days gets tested and takes the necessary precautions,’ he said. ‘I am so sorry for any harm I might have caused. I am back home now and recovering. Thanks for your support and please stay safe and healthy.’ The development comes just a few days after the announcement of tennis’s return was made, with the US Open given the go-ahead for late August. The Dimitrov test is a salient warning that precautions are needed. It will not settle the nerves of some players currently concerned about going to the US. Tennis comes back in the UK tomorrow with the Battle of the Brits at Roehampton’s National Tennis Centre, where restrictions on players and officials will be strict. For example, there will be no ball kids and no line judges.