Last update on. From the section Tennis
Novak Djokovic won 2021 Australian Open men’s singles title. He has stated that he doesn't want to disclose his vaccination status.
According to a letter sent to WTA members, unvaccinated tennis players will be allowed to compete in the Australian Open. However, they will need to undergo two weeks of rigorous quarantine and regular testing.
Ministers from Australia had stated that players with no jabs would be barred from entering the country for the tournament.
However, the WTA players' board says that all competitors will be allowed to travel to Melbourne in January.
It stated that Tennis Australia believed entry rules would improve "significantly".
Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews stated last week that he didn't believe an unvaccinated tennis player would receive a visa to Australia.
Unvaccinated tennis players, including 35% of men's ATP Tour players, remain a significant portion of the sport.
Novak Djokovic (the men's number one in the world and nine-time Australian Open winner) said last week that he didn't want to disclose his vaccination status.
The 34-year old Serb said he wasn't sure if he would defend the title in Melbourne where he could break records for winning a 21st men’s Grand Slam title.
WTA players were informed by a letter that they would need to have a test done within 24 hours. However, there would be:
There is no need to quarantine or remain in a bubble.
They are not subject to any restrictions indefinitely
Complete freedom of movement
It would be a crime to have unvaccinated players:
You must pass the mandatory hotel quarantine within 14 days of your arrival
Participate in regular testing
No matter what vaccination status they have, all players must show proof that their negative test was done within 72 hours.
Tennis Australia has not commented about the arrangements for players who aren't vaccinated.
The governing body released a statement saying that they are confident the Australian Open can be held in pre-pandemic conditions.
In the letter, it was also stated that the qualifying tournament for this year's opening Grand Slam would be held in Melbourne Park.
Tennis Australia was considering holding qualifiers in Dubai and Doha, as it did for 2021. However, the country's borders are still closed.
1000 officials, players, and support staff had to go through a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Australia for this year's event.
After coronavirus cases had been detected on their flights, some players were forbidden from leaving their rooms. This led to frustrated players complaining about the situation and setting up temporary practices in their rooms.
