THE 2021 EDITION OF THE Australian Open is set to go ahead on February 8, three weeks after the original Melbourne Park start date, according to multiple reports in the local media.
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley has sent reportedly an email to players, coaches and managers outlining strict conditions, including two weeks quarantine.
The reports follow on from a statement issued Tuesday by Tiley that reads: “Tennis Australia continues to work closely and productively with the Victorian Government and we are confident we will be in a position to finalise details for Australian Open 2021 very soon.
“We are also in constant communication with the global tennis community, including the Tours, the players and their teams, as we consult with them on plans for the event and how players can safely practise and prepare for a Grand Slam tournament under the Victorian Government’s proposed quarantine conditions.
“Understandably there has been public speculation on the various plans under consideration as well as the many confidential conversations that have taken place and our position remains clear – everything will require approval and agreement from the Victorian Government before it can be confirmed.
“The protection and safety of the community remains paramount in the discussions.
“Our team continues to work on delivering a fantastic – and safe – AO 2021 for the players, the fans, our partners and our staff. We look forward to announcing more details, including when tickets will go on sale, very soon.”
News Corp reported Tiley’s leaked email said authorities had agreed to special conditions for players that would allow them to prepare in Melbourne for the year’s first grand slam.
“It’s taken a while, but the great news is it looks like we are going to be able to hold the AO on February 8,” Tiley said in an email, according to News Corp.
“Players will have to quarantine for two weeks from 15 January, but the Victorian Government has agreed to special conditions for AO participants – agreeing that they need to be able to prepare for a grand slam.”
