Call it flight into danger or living in the new age where humanity and Corona virus have to coexist, it is turning out to be a bizarre experience for tennis players who have flown to Melbourne for the Australian Open. It starts on February 8.
With as many as 17 chartered flights from Dubai and Doha landing in Melbourne over the last three days, news of players being forced into 14-day quarantine has shocked the global tennis fraternity.
Men and women players, some top ranked and some lesser mortals, tennis coaches, physios, masseurs, tennis umpires, referees and officials, stringers, all have been part of the journey. For those who flew in from parts of Europe and USA as well, it was a tough voyage.
As of now, the three Indian male players, Sumit Nagal, Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan are in Melbourne. Ankita Raina, who has made it as lucky loser will also be facing the new life in stringent Bio Bubble.
Speaking to this writer, Bopanna talked of how tough it is. “I have been tested thrice, however, despite my tests returning negative,
I will still be in quarantine another 12 days. I tested before leaving Bengaluru. Luckily, as I did not step out of the Doha airport, there was no testing. In Melbourne, another test for me today, this is how life is,” said the 40-year old doubles ace.
Bopanna, however, said, one cannot complain. “The AO organisers want to be very, very careful and that is good. I am locked in my room, I cannot even step out. I have to look at the four walls, and order food on Uber Eats.
If I want to exercise, I will be given a cycle! What makes it more tough is when I open my window, there is no scenery but another white building wall,” said Bopanna.
Many players have taken to social media, Twitter, Insta and FB to express their disgust. Some of the top players are upset despite not testing positive for the Novel Corona virus or other strain, they will still be locked inside their rooms.
Sumit Nagal also was sober when he said he is accepting this new life. He, obviously, is happy he will play tennis finally in February. There will be an ATP Tour event for him and others before the Aus Open.
Divij Sharan, perhaps is the lucky one. His flight was safe and he will get to start training, according to his message to this website. Having lived in United Kingdom, he has faced the worst since 2020. “I am looking forward to this tennis season,” he said.
Even as many players are furious they were not briefed properly, the debate over vaccine has also blown out. Apparently, Novak Djokovic still feels the vaccine is not “a must.”
Bopanna had a different view. “I suppose all of us players will be vaccinated before the Tokyo Olympics,” he said, which is a very positive mindset.
Players have not been put up in the best of hotels but from here till February 8, it will be a survival of the fittest, physically and mentally.
Mr. S. Kannan
Senior, Sports Journalist
