Former US Open champion Dominic Thiem will not be able to cheer on his fellow peers at the Vienna Open this year as he is yet to receive his COVID-19 vaccination, according to an Austrian news agency.
Heute has reported that the world No.9 will not be granted a special exception to attend the ATP 500 tournament with organisers stating that all attendees must be vaccinated. The rules for players are different with them being required to provide a negative PCR test upon arrival. This year’s Vienna Open features eight out of the world’s top 14 players.
Thiem is currently sidelined from the Tour due to a right wrist injury but is hoping to be fit in time for the Australian Open in January. Earlier this month he spoke out about his plans for the COVID-19 vaccination and said he was waiting for one specific type to be released before he has an injection.
The 28-year-old has been recommended by his doctor to have the Novavax vaccine because it is ‘really good.’ Forbes Magazine has noted that the company has been unable to deploy its shot in recent months because of persistent problems related to production and quality.
“I haven’t been vaccinated yet,” Thiem stated. “I want to wait for the Novavax vaccine because I heard from my doctor that it should be really good.”
However, Thiem does have another plan should the Novavax shot not be available. He is eager to have a vaccination before the year ends due to uncertainty over the Australian Open and it’s rules regarding allowing unvaccinated players play. One internal letter sent by the WTA players Council on Sunday suggests those players will be allowed to play but will be subjected to strict restrictions. However, government officials in the country have said the opposite. A final decision is expected to be made at some stage during November.
“If it works out by the end of November, I’ll have it vaccinated. If not, I’ll get something else vaccinated.” Said Thiem.
Prior to suffering a wrist injury in June, Thiem has experienced a rollercoaster run on the Tour this season. Overall, he was only able to win nine out of 18 matches played. Just once in seven tournaments played did he manage to reach the semi-finals, which was back in May at the Madrid Open. Thiem also lost in the first round of the French Open which was his worst ever result at the Grand Slam.
However, there is also good news for Thiem. Recently he was told by doctors that he will not need to undergo any surgery on his wrist as he continues his rehabilitation. Placing him on course to begin playing competitively once again at the start of next year.
