Strict corona entry rules also apply to tennis stars in Australia – as Novak Djokovic felt. Once down under, it’s up to the athletes themselves to show responsibility.
After all, it’s summer in Australia right now. That makes corona security easier for the tennis stars in the Australians. If you go to the restaurant, you can sit outside and at least reduce the risk of infection.
In his own words, Alexander Zverev even refrains from doing so in the tense pandemic situation. He orders food to his room to protect himself. A few days ago, the man from Hamburg started the debate about the Corona measures and thus the next topic outside of sport after the court and visa case about the proven record champion Novak Djokovic.
“We will not be tested,” replied the Olympic champion in Melbourne when asked if he was concerned about a corona case and suspected: “I think if we were tested there would probably be more positives than there are now.” The title contender appealed to reason. “At the end of the day we as players have to take responsibility ourselves. I know that I carry it. I know that I do it,” said the third in the world rankings
Tests are welcome, but not controlled
Australia on Friday reported 80 deaths, the highest number in the country so far during the pandemic. Nevertheless, the organizers around the already criticized tournament director Craig Tiley only encourage the players to test themselves. But you don’t control it. A PCR test upon arrival is mandatory, as is a rapid test on days five through seven. On all other days, your own quick tests are voluntary.
“I also believe that if you were to test 128 players now, you would have one or the other positive one,” speculated Davis Cup team boss Michael Kohlmann as he sat on the terrace at Melbourne Park on Saturday. The rules changed after arriving in Sydney, where the ATP Cup was played. “We have to stick to the rules. If the rules were such that tests were carried out here every day, everyone would participate,” said the 48-year-old.
Only vaccinated players are allowed to compete
Spectators are admitted to the first Grand Slam tournament. Because of the Corona numbers, the capacity was limited to 50 percent a few days before the start of the tournament. Corona marshalls are supposed to check whether visitors are wearing their masks correctly, but this is not consistently implemented.
In principle, Australia only allowed vaccinated professionals to participate. A test center is set up in a hotel. The participants are equipped with rapid tests. “I test myself every other day in my room. It’s not mandatory. I’ll do it anyway,” said Garbiñe Muguruza from Spain, who is now third in the world rankings.
The Frenchman Ugo Humbert had made a positive test public after his first round exit. It is logical for players to become infected, said Zverev. After all, they can go into town, in restaurants, do whatever they want.
Doubles player Andreas Mies, who competes with Kevin Krawietz, commented on the test rules as follows: “We both feel great. That’s why there was no reason to do another test. That’s not so nice for the tournament when it’s on once third round, quarterfinals one cannot compete because he has tested positive but actually has no symptoms.”
After all, it’s about sporting success – and a lot of money. A doubles earns around 40,000 euros together for the round of 16, a round of 16 in singles has a good 200,000 euros. “I hope that the players and the coaches are honest enough to say: ‘Hey, if I’m not feeling so good, then maybe I’d rather do one or two more tests,'” said Zverev.
Source From: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
