Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep has become the first top player in women’s tennis to publicly urge the WTA to ease the restrictions placed on players.
The former world No.1 says she ‘wishes’ her Tour would follow a recent decision which has been made by the men’s ATP Tour. A report published by Tennis Majors has confirmed that from May 17th there will be a relaxation in COVID-19 rules for players at the tournaments in Geneva, Switzerland and Lyon, France. In a document issued internally, the ATP says changes can be made due to the use of the more rapid Antigen tests which can produce results every two days instead of the four produced by the PCR tests. Players will be allowed to leave designated areas within the tournament, stay in alternative hotels and use public transport.
Responding to the development, Halep acknowledges that many are eager to end ‘bubble life’ on the Tour. Earlier this year the Romanian suggested that the current conditions are preventing some players from producing their highest level of play.
“I haven’t read the ATP announcement, but I wish that the WTA will do this thing also because we really need to relax a little bit,” Halep told reporters on Media Day at the Italian Open. “The bubble is always tough, as I said. I keep saying that.’
“But they know what they do, so we will wait for them for their decision. And also, the governments have to approve these rules,” she added.
There has been no public comment from the WTA regarding potential changes made to their policy regarding COVID-19. The governing body also has to factor in each country which has their own rules related to the pandemic depending on the number of cases they have. In a statement issued to Tennis Majors, a spokesperson said they are ‘holding conversations’ with the relevant parties.
“The WTA is currently holding conversations with our players and tournaments to review the COVID protocols and discuss if there should be any adjustments to the current protocols in place,” the WTA said.
“Any changes will factor in a balance that allows us to keep the environment safe so we can continue operating our Tour across the globe without risking the health and safety of our players, staff, fans and local communities.”
Halep will be the third seed in Rome this week where she will be bidding to win the title for a second year in a row. Something which was last achieved by Elina Svitolina who triumphed in 2017 and 2018. She will be aiming to get back on track after losing in the third round of the Madrid Open last week in what was her earliest exit there since 2015.
“I think my game looked okay. I don’t really have regrets about that. But I can say I need to calm down a little bit, not rushing that much and to stop missing in the important moments,” she commented on her latest loss.
“But those things I think are coming with more matches, so I’m just looking forward to have as many as possible until the French Open.”
Halep will play either Angelique Kerber or Alize Cornet in her opening Rome match.
