Melbourne — Alexander Zverev believes there are probably more players with COVID-19 at the Australian Open, but they haven’t been tested, the third seed said Wednesday.
Frenchman Ugo Humbert said Wednesday that he tested positive for the coronavirus the day after his first defeat by fellow countryman Richard Gasquet and was forced to quarantine in Australia for a week.
Players must be fully vaccinated to compete in the Australian Open. This is a rule that has forced the government to deport Novak Djokovic, the world’s number one, because it has not been vaccinated.
“We are allowed to go out and eat, and we are allowed to do what we like, so I think it’s natural for more people to get infected with COVID,” Zverev said. Spoke to reporters after sending Australia’s John Millman in a straight set in the second round.
“I think a good number of players had it when they arrived. I think a good number of players have it now. We haven’t taken the test, so if we were to take the test In a way, I think we can get more positive results than we do now. “
Reuters contacted Tennis Australia for comment. According to Australia’s ABC News, players will have to perform a rapid antigen test on their own each day, but supervised testing will take place between the date of arrival and the 5th to 7th day of stay.
Bernard Tomic criticized the COVID-19 testing protocol in qualifying last week, saying: They allow players to come to court with quick tests in their room … there is no official PCR test. “
Australians with mercury tested positive after 2 days.
Zverev said the 24-year-old Olympic champion is aiming for his first Grand Slam title, so he has taken all precautions to prevent the infection and remains in his bubble.
“I’m here to play tournaments. I understand that there are many cases in Melbourne and many cases in Australia, so I don’t do much outside. I’ve been to a restaurant yet. I haven’t gone out, “he added.
“I’ve never been anywhere other than a hotel room and court, so I’m doing a bubble for myself just because I don’t want to take risks. Give yourself the best chance possible. I want to be here. “
By Rohith Nai
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