The Australian Open will continue for the next five days without any spectators after thirteen Covid-19 cases were confirmed in the city and the whole state of Victoria has gone into full lockdown.
30,000 fans a day had been allowed but that has been suspended. Players are classed as essential workers and so exempt from the total lockdown being applied to citizens across the city and the state.
“Tennis Australia continues to work with the government to ensure the health and safety of everyone,” read a statement from Tennis Australia.
“The Victorian government has announced a five-day lockdown commencing at 11:59 pm on Friday. Australian Open sessions today and tonight will continue as planned with Covid-safe protocols in place.”
“We are notifying ticketholders, players and staff that there will be no fans onsite at the Australian Open for five days, commencing from Saturday, February 13.”
“Full refunds will be available for anyone who has tickets for these sessions.”
“The AO broadcast-only contingency plan will commence from Saturday, February 13 until restrictions are lifted.”
“Play will continue uninterrupted on the broadcast, albeit without spectators onsite.”
The playbook coming out of the tournament in terms of scenario planning will be valuable for sports administrators around the world.
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