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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)
This week has delivered some great news for the tennis players and its fans. Other than a small surprise from Roger Federer, the confirmed dates of the 2021 Australian Open were announced. However, a recent revelation from Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews might not work out well for Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams.
Commencing from February 8 next year, the major tournament will be held in a very stringent manner. Alongside the two-week compulsory quarantine for all players, Australia is believed to create the securest bubble on the planet. What’s new is that even the top seeds will receive the same treatment as other players.
Victorian Premier declares no exceptions in Australian Open
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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)
Since tennis resumed after the pandemic-imposed break, the players have endured exhaustive precautionary measures throughout the 2020 season. On condition that same follows in 2021, many have already resigned from participation. But, for the high-ranking players, certain privileges played a pivotal role in successfully carrying out the ATP Tour.
World No. 1 Djokovic had the luxury to quarantine in a private home during the 2020 US Open. American great Serena Williams also had the same advantage. According to the Premier of the State of Victoria, this won’t continue in Melbourne Park, Australia.
Read More: Aussie Coach Talks About Novak Djokovic’s Staying Plans at the Australian Open 2021
“His tennis ranking with his preference for the number of stars that the hotel that he or she stays at. I think what people want, what people accept is that there can’t be any exceptions,” said Andrews. The response to this is still much-awaited from the associated players.
No exceptions for top seeds! Here is the Premier of The state of Victoria @DanielAndrewsMP being very clear of what he thinks of elite players coming to @AustralianOpen pic.twitter.com/8zXjjqodqh
— SvenTennis (@sventennis) December 4, 2020
Australia is ready to see great tennis once again
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MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 29: Roger Federer of Switzerland (R) celebrates winning in the Men’s Final match against Raphael Nadal of Spain on day 14 of the 2017 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 29, 2017, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)
The opening Grand Slam of 2021 will notably be a one of a kind tournament. With reports to airlift players via chartered airplanes to allowing movement during the quarantine period, the Australian Open will be unlike any major tournament.
All of its credit belongs to the organizers and the government to execute this massive event in such circumstances. Additionally, Melbourne Park will host the top players from all around the world. The Swiss maestro Roger Federer will play in Australia after a one year break from tennis.
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Despite the many challenges, Australia will be a great platform for young and experienced players equally. For the fans, the 2021 season is right around the corner as many players have begun their training. Relive the most classical encounter at the Australian Open here.
Also Read: Roger Federer, Kevin Anderson, Rafael Nadal and Others to Approve Australian Open 2021 Measures
