Australian Open dates to be set ‘as soon as possible’ amid coronavirus uncertainty

Photograph: Getty Images

Australian Open organisers hope to finalise tournament dates "as soon as possible" amid speculation January's event could be moved to February or March.

Current Covid-19 quarantine restrictions in Australia would make holding the first grand slam of 2021 in its planned 18-31 January slot logistically difficult.

READ MORE: ATP confirm ‘new challenges’ over Australian Open

At present, players would need to quarantine for two weeks on arrival in Australia while the state of Victoria will reportedly not allow them to enter before 1 January.

That would have a big impact on warm-up tournaments and players' general ability to train and prepare.

The Australian Open may be moved from its original date (Getty Images)

Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said: "Tennis Australia is doing everything we can to finalise the summer of tennis as soon as possible.

"Our intention is to deliver a summer in conditions that allow the players to prepare and perform at their best and the fans to enjoy their efforts - all in an environment that is safe for all concerned.

"We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and bio-security requirements and are confident we will have decisions soon.

"Tennis Australia is acutely aware of the need for certainty, but also conscious of reaching a solution with the state government that ensures the safety of the entire community."

Rafael Nadal, the 2009 champion and four-time runner-up in Melbourne, urged patience as the situation continues to develop.

Speaking after his defeat at the ATP Finals on Saturday, Nadal said: "I don't know what the situation is going to be yet. We need to wait (to hear) what the government there in Victoria says.

"We have nobody to say what they feel is better for the country. We just need to be patient and accept the situation that we are facing. That is difficult for everyone.

"We need to be flexible to understand the situation and to find a way to play as many tournaments as possible next year, to continue with the tour, to try to help the lower-ranked players keep their jobs, and all the staff that make a living from our sport."

In 2020 the French Open was moved from June to a September start date due to the coronavirus pandemic. The start of the US Open was put back by just a week in August but Wimbledon was cancelled altogether.

Novak Djokovic and Sofia Kenin are due to defend their respective singles titles in Melbourne.

PA