Tennis Australia Chief Announces a Huge Update on Australian Open 2021 Amid Uncertainties
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Tennis Australia Chief Announces a Huge Update on Australian Open 2021 Amid Uncertainties
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A general view inside Rod Laver Arena at sunset during the Men’s Singles Final match betwen Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Rafael Nadal of Spain during day 14 of the 2019 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)
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A general view inside Rod Laver Arena at sunset during the Men’s Singles Final match betwen Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Rafael Nadal of Spain during day 14 of the 2019 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)
The Australian tennis summer, including the Australian Open 2021, is in a big fix with numerous scheduling issues. With the dates set to be finalized soon, Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley gave an update, showing optimism towards holding the tournament without a lot of major hiccups.
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Tiley said that Tennis Australia and the Victorian Government are working to finalize the tennis summer. They will have to consider quarantine protocols and rules before making a decision. Tiley then confirmed that fans are part of their plans.
“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,” Tiley said in a statement.
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A general view of Melbourne Park during day five of the 2019 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Australian Open 2021 update on fan attendance
The Australian Open 2021 organizers will soon have details on crowd sizes for the event. He went on to say that Tennis Australia expects the tickets to go on sale in the next two weeks.
“We look forward to announcing our ticket-on-sale date as soon as all arrangements with the relevant authorities are finalized. And we have more information on crowd sizes,” Tiley added.
He expressed that they are in “urgent talks” with health authorities regarding quarantine facilities and protocols.
“We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and biosecurity requirements. And are confident we will have a decision soon,” the statement said.
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MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 05: The giant Australian Open logo is seen full of tennis balls ahead of the 2019 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 05, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)
Safety is of paramount importance
With a lot of uncertainty and chaos around the event since the last few days, there is confusion among players and everyone involved about their plans for next season. However, tennis, as well as government authorities in Australia, have to ensure strict enforcement of the safety guidelines.
“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,” Tiley admitted.
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Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates at the trophy presentation ceremony after winning the men’s singles final match against Dominic Thiem of Austria on day fourteen of the 2020 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on February 2, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Andy Cheung/Getty Images)
On Saturday, an update said that Tennis Australia hopes to announce the final dates in 2-3 days. However, with the discussions still going on, as per the chief’s statement, it is doubtful that the tournament will begin on schedule.
A January 18 start date seems difficult. The longer it takes for the decision on the schedule, the tougher it is for players to prepare. That is because the players have to follow the 14-day quarantine period, no matter what.
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