Australian Open preparations on track despite "super-spreading" warnings: "AO is ready and raring to go"

Despite warnings that the Australian Open could potentially become a super spreader in a country which has remained extra vigilant in the sight of Coronavirus, Tennis Australia are on track for the start of action.

With warm-up tournaments likely to gauge any potential further restrictions needed for fans, players etc as well as the feel of fans coming through the gates, positive tests have occurred from players which they were prepared for.

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“There have been some positive results within the playing group, which was not unexpected. Anyone with a positive result follows all the public health orders and is under expert medical care,” a Tennis Australia spokeswoman said as reported by The Age.

“Everyone coming from overseas for the Australian Open has been required to return a negative test 72 hours prior to departure, and to take both a PCR and rapid antigen test on arrival.”

So how has this impacted ticket sales with also the potential for Novak Djokovic not to be there? The spokesperson continued that the hunger and appetite was still there.

“With the ATP Cup now on TV, and lead-in events about to start in Adelaide and Melbourne, there’s a realisation in the community that the AO is ready and raring to go. Melbourne Park looks incredible and there is so much that is new for this year,” the spokeswoman said.

University of South Australia professor Adrian Esterman who previously worked as a epidemiologist for the state's health department said that taking extra precaution would be sensible.

“It seems the height of madness to have these major events where there’s a high chance of super-spreading,” Professor Esterman said.

“But good news - if there is any - because they are outdoors, they’re less risky.”

There are also extra protocols set if players do test positive with Tennis Australia boss, Craig Tiley and his team prepared for any eventuality.

“The process of coming in is a 72-hour test before you get in, a negative test when you arrive, isolate until you get a negative result. You have to show proof of that negative test to get your accreditation, and then there’s a whole bunch of protocol to coach the players on what they need to be doing,” Tiley said.

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