Australian Open 2021 – What the Victoria block means for the first tennis season Slam

MELBOURNE, Australia – The 2021 Australian Open already looked considerably different from previous years’ tournaments, but Friday’s announcement of a five-day state block in Victoria has thrown things into even greater chaos.

Players will once again have to get used to the lack of crowds, with spectators locked away from Melbourne Park until at least Thursday, February 18, to comply with the state’s Stage 4 restrictions.

So, what exactly is going on in Melbourne and what does that mean for the first Grand Slam of the year? Here is an attempt to clarify things a bit.

What is the current status of COVID-19 in Victoria?

As of Saturday, Victoria had 20 active cases of COVID-19. Only one new case of the virus was detected in the community overnight – bringing the number of cases in the community (those that were not in a hotel quarantine) to 14.

All cases that are not in a hotel quarantine and their immediate immediate contacts (such as family members and housemates) currently isolate themselves automatically. In the 24 hours until midnight on Friday, 20,116 tests were performed across the state.

In total, 14 active cases are linked to the Holiday Inn cluster at Melbourne Airport. The hotel was used as a quarantine location for returning arrivals abroad, but is no longer used as such after the virus escaped and spread through the community last week.

What are the most recent restrictions in Victoria?

On Friday, the state government of Victoria ordered a five-day “breaker” block and reintroduced Stage 4 restrictions for the entire state. This means that as of Saturday, the Victorians (and all visitors to the state) are allowed to leave their residence for only one of four reasons: to buy necessary goods and services, to take care and care, to exercise and do essential work.

Necessary goods and services include supermarkets and other food retailers, post offices, banks, pharmacies and liquor stores. Other establishments, including gyms, swimming pools and sports clubs, were forced to close during the blockade period.

Except for attending essential jobs and providing care, Victorians also cannot leave a radius of 3 miles around their homes, while masks must be worn at all times – except when performing strenuous exercise, such as running. A complete list of restrictions can be found here.

Do players have to respect the latest restrictions?

Yes, but under restrictions, they are defined as “essential workers” and can attend their workplace – in this case, Melbourne Park. However, after leaving the police station, they must obey the same rules as everyone in Victoria, including leaving their residence for only four essential reasons. As practice is part of their job, they will be able to practice on the Melbourne Park courts when they are not playing. Players are required to wear masks inside and outside the home, except during exercise.

During the initial 14-day quarantine, those who were not on hard lockdown were allowed to practice five hours a day, but this limit is not in effect for current restrictions.

While the current five-day lockout is in effect, the 22 suites at Rod Laver Arena will receive the best seeds still in the tournament. Players will be able to use them as changing rooms and rest areas as a way to help social distance around Melbourne Park. According to Tennis Australia, the top 11 men and women in the draw will still receive a suite each.

Who is still allowed to enter Melbourne Park?

Melbourne Park grounds will be very empty during the weekend and the second week of the tournament, with fans unable to enter. Still, in addition to the players and coaches, there are a few other people who can be seen roaming the field.

“The essential items for the delivery of the event will be on site,” said tournament director Craig Tiley on Friday afternoon.

This means that the referees and the children will continue their roles normally. Security is also permitted on site, along with members of the media, including photographers, broadcasters and the press.

What happens to fans who had tickets for days 6-10?

While it may be disappointing that fans are unable to attend the Australian Open, they will not come out of pocket. Tennis Australia will offer full refunds to all fans who purchased tickets from Saturday until next Wednesday, with an announcement on how they can claim a refund that is expected soon. The details will be shared as soon as they are known.

Are those who were forced to leave Rod Laver Arena on Friday night entitled to a refund?

World number one Novak Djokovic said he “had never seen anything like it” when fans at Rod Laver Arena were asked to leave the venue at 11:30 pm local time on Friday. With the imminent curfew, the game was suspended for 15 minutes as the spectators were sent home by security. This meant that Djokovic and American Taylor Fritz had to play their fifth decisive set in an empty stadium, while fans who had to leave could not witness what would be an epic ending.

Although not confirmed, Tennis Australia is also expected to refund any tickets purchased for the Friday night session at Rod Laver Arena, although fans can watch the previous 5 ½ hours of play.