Australian Open tennis director Craig Tiley said on Monday that participants in the tournament will not need to be tested for COVID-19 and that even those infected with the virus can compete in Melbourne.
The health protocol, which Tilly says reflects what’s happening in the outside community, represents a radical change from the strict restrictions that have surrounded competitors over the past two years.
The 2021 edition went through a medical bubble with no fans for days following the rapid spread of the virus, and Novak Djokovic, a 9-time title holder, was deported ahead of last year’s edition after not receiving a vaccine.
“We just want to follow what’s going on in society right now,” Tiley told reporters in Melbourne Park.
He added: “We have taken the step of recommending that we stay away when we are unwell and that our medical team will continue to monitor this as well as each individual player.”
Matt Renshaw, a cricketer, continued to play for Australia against South Africa in Sydney a few days ago, although he was infected with the virus.
Renshaw was isolated from the rest of his colleagues for three days before returning after more than one negative test result.
“We made it clear to our players, as well as the staff, that if anyone feels unwell, they should stay at home,” Tiley added.
He continued: “It’s a natural environment for us, no different from cricket, and it’s possible that some players with Covid will compete.”
Melbourne has put in place many strict restrictions for long periods of virus spread, but these have been significantly reduced.
Source: “Wakalat”