Australian Open dates to be set ‘as soon as possible’ amid coronavirus uncertainty
Current Covid-19 restrictions in Australia would make the Grand Slam’s current January slot problematic
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Australian Open organisers hope to finalise tournament dates "as soon as possible" amid speculation January's event could be moved to February or March.
Current Covid-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia would make holding the first grand slam of 2021 in its planned 18-31 January slot logistically difficult.
READ MORE: ATP confirm ‘new challenges’ over Australian Open
At present, players would need to quarantine for two weeks on arrival in Australia while the state of Victoria will reportedly not allow them to enter before 1 January.Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said: "Tennis Australia is doing everything we can to finalise the summer of tennis as soon as possible.
"Our intention is to deliver a summer in conditions that allow the players to prepare and perform at their best and the fans to enjoy their efforts - all in an environment that is safe for all concerned.
"We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and bio-security requirements and are confident we will have decisions soon.
"Tennis Australia is acutely aware of the need for certainty, but also conscious of reaching a solution with the state government that ensures the safety of the entire community."
Rafael Nadal, the 2009 champion and four-time runner-up in Melbourne, urged patience as the situation continues to develop.
Speaking after his defeat at the ATP Finals on Saturday, Nadal said: "I don't know what the situation is going to be yet. We need to wait (to hear) what the government there in Victoria says.
"We have nobody to say what they feel is better for the country. We just need to be patient and accept the situation that we are facing. That is difficult for everyone.
"We need to be flexible to understand the situation and to find a way to play as many tournaments as possible next year, to continue with the tour, to try to help the lower-ranked players keep their jobs, and all the staff that make a living from our sport."
In 2020 the French Open was moved from June to a September start date due to the coronavirus pandemic. The start of the US Open was put back by just a week in August but Wimbledon was cancelled altogether.
Novak Djokovic and Sofia Kenin are due to defend their respective singles titles in Melbourne.
PA
This weekend get a £10 free bet with Betfair, when you bet £10 on a Same Game Multi on the Premier League. Terms: Min £10 Same Game Multi bet on any EPL match this Fri - Sun. Free bet valid for 72 hours, awarded at bet settlement. Excludes cashed out bets. T&Cs apply.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments