The adaptation of professional sports played in the midst of a pandemic is great to witness. But it was an adjustment, and some events worked, while others were canceled.
Specifically, in tennis, the cancellation of Wimbledon in 2020 was of utmost importance. But it had to happen.
Tennis begins this new year with the hope that all four majors will play alongside the top players in the world. The Australian Open has been postponed until February 8, and players are already on site in compulsory quarantine.
The world’s best tennis players show up, ready to fight for the first Grand Slam title of 2021. Before the fight can begin, they must be quarantined for 14 days, take daily COVID-19 tests, physically give up, practice and practice under strictly controlled COVIDSafe conditions. pic.twitter.com/XrJDmc9vCi
– #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) 15 January 2021
For Rafael Nadal, the chance to compete for another title is all he can ask for, given the state of the world. “At least we’re here,” Nadal said in a CNN interview. “The world suffers. We can not complain; we can only thank Tennis Australia and the Australian community for welcoming us.”
The players’ protocol is two weeks of self-isolation in their hotel room and passing several COVID-19 tests. Some players are waving, and others are sharing on social media their innovative ways of keeping tennis rhythm.
Let it work if life gives you quarantine. 😂💪
Which player did the hotel practice best?#LockDownUnder | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/EA5YO5rvDO
– Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) 19 January 2021
“It’s normal to complain in a way,” Nadal said. “But on the other hand, you have to have a slightly broader perspective of what’s going on in the world.”
Nadal has always been cerebral with his actions, and his tennis talent is rarely abandoned, except for injuries. He paired Roger Federer with 20 Grand Slam titles after winning his 13th French Open in October. With this Australian Open he can darken Federer.
In less than two weeks, the game will start, and we will see how the players’ performances on the court go to quarantine conditions. Several big-name players have already entered the tournament, such as Federer, Andy Murray, Kiki Bertens and Madison Keys.
Nadal says he understands that the situation with limited training time is less than ideal. Still, when the players agreed to come to Australia, they knew it would be tough.
“Try to stay positive,” Nadal said, focusing on. “I feel we are very privileged to continue to do our job.”