Australian Open players can compete if they have COVID-19, no needs to take tests for 2023 edition

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed that players will be able to play at the event even if they're COVID-19 positive.

The new announcement is not surprising as it's been the case for a while in Australian sports. Two years ago when the pandemic started players were competing in a biosecure bubble. Last year we had players isolated if they tested positive with daily testing taking place. There won't be any daily testing this year and if players turn up positive, they will be allowed to play.

The practice will be mostly self-determined as all players will receive instructions to remain in their hotel if they're feeling unwell. Tiley spoke about the new rules leading up to the event:

"We just wanted to follow what's currently in the community. We have gone a step further by making a recommendation around staying away when you're ill."

He added:

"We've made it clear to our players, as well as our staff, if anyone is feeling unwell, stay home, our medical staff will continue to monitor that, with the players individually as well. It's a normalised environment for us and, not dissimilar to the cricket, there will potentially be players that will compete with Covid-19."