A sensitive discussion has arisen about the corona test strategy at the Australian Open of tennis professionals. During the tournament, quick tests are voluntary – that doesn’t reflect well on the organizers. Alexander Zverev appeals to reason.
It’s summer in Australia – that’s what makes the tennis pros at the Australian Open easier for Corona security. If you go to the restaurant, you can sit outside and at least reduce the risk of infection.
Alexander Zverev In the tense pandemic situation, in his own words, he even does without it. He orders food to his room to protect himself. The debate about the Corona measures and thus the next topic apart from sport after the court and visa case about the proven record champion Novak Djokovic the hamburger clinked a few days ago.
“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.”
Tournament Director Tiley under criticism
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 in Melbourne Park. 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.
Title contender Zverev 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. 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.
Quick tests for the players
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 up 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, I might do one or two more tests,'” said Zverev.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:220122-99-808026/2 (dpa)
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