Read more from Author Melissa Galbraith here: https://globelivemedia.com/author/melissa-galbraith/
Both local authorities and Tennis Australia do not give pass to anyone when it comes to compliance with the anti-COVID protocol, not even their own idols. It is the case of the aussie star Ashleigh Barty, world number one and 2019 Roland Garros champion, who has not competed for almost a year. The player She was seen inside a Melbourne supermarket without a mask and was later forced to publicly apologize.
“It was an innocent mistake. I accidentally forgot to wear a mask in a supermarket (Thursday) in Melbourne (specifically in a Coles)”Barty said. I apologized as soon as I realized my failure. I understand that we all have to do our bit to keep the community safe and I will be better next time, “he continued.
Barty, who is not obliged to quarantine because of her Australian status and because she has not tested positive for coronavirus, thanks for the fact that there is tennis in her country: “We are very lucky in Australia to have a Grand Slam at home. The support of the Australian fans means a lot to me and I always want to do well here. I understand that this year will be different in many ways, but I hope I can make the local fans proud.”
From the outset, and according to the newspaper The Australian, Melbourne’s WTA 500 tournaments leading up to the Open may have fewer players and may not start on January 31But later to give time for tennis players who cannot train during quarantine to prepare for competition.