Tennis Australia has said allegations that the governing body is using loopholes to allow players who have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the country is ‘simply untrue.’
In line with the rules set out by a health mandate in the state of Victoria, all tennis players must be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to play in the Australian Open. However, there are a few exemptions which allow players who are not double jabbed to participate as long as they meet the criteria. Examples include players who are suffering from an acute medical condition or have suffered from inflammatory cardiac illness over the past six months.
Some news outlets have quoted unnamed sources suggesting that world No.1 Novak Djokovic could try to apply for an exemption on medical grounds and has received the support of Tennis Australia. It is understood that if the 20-time Grand Slam champion applies for an exception he could avoid two weeks of quarantine upon arrival in Australia assuming he has not been vaccinated. Djokovic has refused to publicly speak out about his status but is on the entry list for both the ATP Cup and Australian Open.
However, Tennis Australia has denied using loopholes in order for players to participate in their tournaments without making any reference to Djokovic. In a statement issued on Wednesday to the Australian Associated Press, the organization insisted that “all players, participants and staff at the Australian Open have to be vaccinated”.
“Any suggestion that Tennis Australia is seeking ‘loopholes’ within this process is simply untrue. Adjudicating on medical exemptions is the domain of independent medical experts. We are not in a position to influence this process and nor would we,” the Tennis Australia statement said.
“Any application for a medical exemption must follow strict government guidelines based on Atagi (Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) clinical advice. This is the same process that applies to any person wanting to enter Australia.”
James Merlino, who is the deputy Premier of Victoria, has slammed any suggestion of using loopholes for who he describes as ‘privileged tennis players.’ He later added that it is the decision of the commonwealth as to who should be granted a medical exemption.
Djokovic is currently tied with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer for most Grand Slam titles ever won by a male player at 20 each. He could overtake his rivals should he play at the Australian Open next month. He has already won the men’s title a record nine times.
The Australian Open will begin on January 17th.
