Fifth seed Maria Sakkari says Tennis Australia has been doing a ‘great job’ regarding their testing of players for COVID-19 after some voiced concerns over their policy.
In recent days, organizers have been under scrutiny over the decision to allow players to have optional tests during the tournament amid fears that some could be playing whilst positive. Former world No.1 Garbine Muguruza said she tested herself daily but was under no obligation to do so and didn’t have to show proof of a negative test upon arrival in the Melbourne Park. Meanwhile, Alexander Zverev said earlier this week that he fears that the number of positive cases at the tournament is higher than what is being reported.
Tournament staff at the Australian Open are required to undergo a rapid antigen test each day and must be negative to remain on site. However, Tennis Australia says players only need to do testing if they are experiencing any symptoms of Covid.
World No.8 Sakkari says it is the responsibility of players when it comes to testing and not that of the tournament. Speaking to reporters following her 6-4, 6-1, win over Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova, the Greek hailed the protocols which have been used at the Grand Slam this year.
“I think we are at the point where it’s not the beginning of the pandemic, it’s been almost two years. These tests are very accurate. Players are responsible. We’re at the stage that we have to get our responsibility,” she said.
“I’m actually very, very supportive of the way they’re doing it here in Australia, in Melbourne. Tennis Australia is doing a great job.”
The view of the 26-year-old is one which has also been echoed by some of her peers including Stefanos Tsitsipas following his second round win on Thursday and Victoria Azarenka today. Azarenka is also a member of the WTA Players Council.
“I think it’s important, of course, to take your own responsibility for all the precautions, for all the measurements and for testing. That’s really where I stand.” Azarenka stated after beating Elina Svitolina in straight sets.
All players at the Australian Open have to be fully vaccinated unless they qualify for a medical exemption. Upon arrival in the country, they have to take a mandatory PCR test and then another between day five and seven.
Sakkari is through to the fourth round in Melbourne for only the second time in her career. She is yet to drop a set in the tournament and will next take on 21st seed and 2021 quarter-finalist Jessica Pegula.
“I’m expecting a very tough match. I’m very excited because it’s going to be on a Sunday, hopefully with more people and a nice atmosphere,” she replied when assked about her next match.
