REPORT: Novak Djokovic Passes On COVID-19 Test To Return Home - UBITENNIS

REPORT: Novak Djokovic Passes On COVID-19 Test To Return Home

It has emerged that the Serbian tennis opted to pass on the option of having a test on Sunday evening after Grigor Dimitrov tested positive because he felt fine.

By Adam Addicott
3 Min Read

World No.1 Novak Djokovic reportedly decline a optional COVID-19 test  at the Adria Tour in Croatia on Sunday evening despite one of the competitors tested positive.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion had been in Croatia over the weekend playing in the event which had to be ended early after Grigor Dimitrov tested positive for the virus. Dimitrov confirmed his positive test on Sunday, the day after he withdrew from the competition. The Bulgarian has been in close proximity with both players and fans throughout his time in the region. Prompting local authorities to set up a specialist helpline to advise those who have been in close contact with him.

In the wake of the positive test, organisers of the Adria Tour released a statement in which it said all of their players will also undergo tests back in their hotel. They stated that the necessary safety measures were followed throughout the tournament.

“At all times we have strictly followed the epidemiological measures in place with the countries where the Adria Tour was organised. None of the people involved in the organisation and who have been in contact with Grigor have any symptoms,” a statement reads. “However, we are in close contact with health authorities in order to ensure that all people who were in contact with Grigor Dimitrov will be tested tonight (Sunday).”

Since that statement, it has been reported that Djokovic didn’t have a COVID-19 test on Sunday evening and instead opted to travel back to Belgrade. Where he would then consult with doctors. According to Serbian TV Channel B92, sources have told them that he didn’t have the test because ‘he feels well and didn’t have any symptoms.’ Newspaper Kurir has also reported the same information.

According to B92, Croatian health officials told players that the COVID-19 tests were optional if they have no symptoms. However, self-isolation is mandatory. It is unclear who did and didn’t take the tests.

It is confusing as to why Djokovic would decide to skip having a test even if he did feel fine. It is still possible that he could be asymptomatic and can actually infect others. Especially given the fact he has been in close contact with Dimitrov with the two playing basketball against each other.

It is also unclear as to what will happen to the rest of the Adria Tour or if it will be cancelled. On Monday morning they published a new Instagram post in which they advised everybody who has been in close contact with Dimitrov to isolate for 14 days. It is expected that this includes players as well.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBtjU1YAUbo/

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