Ronnie O'Sullivan believes snooker players are being treated like "lab rats" with the upcoming World Snooker Championship set to welcome spectators.
The Crucible is one of three venues piloting the safe return of fans in the coronavirus pandemic as the government "stress test" new guidelines.
O'Sullivan, who will start his campaign against Thailand's Thepchaiya Un-Nooh on Sunday, said: "They're treating this snooker event like lab rats really, so what can you do? You can sit here and complain and say it isn't right, but it is what it is.
"Maybe they have to start doing tests on crowds at some point. You've got to start somewhere, (so why not) start with snooker players - less insurance to pay out for Anthony Hamilton than there is for Lewis Hamilton.
"I defy anybody, if they've been keeping their distance from people for four months, to say, 'oh right, now you've got to go into a room full of people' - unless you've got a death wish, and some people have in many ways and they just don't care.
"But if you're one of those people who happens to care about your health and are taking it seriously, I totally get how he (Hamilton) feels."
Spectators with tickets for sessions of this year's event must undergo a series of strict protocols prior and during their visit, including signing a code of conduct and wearing face masks as they make their way to their seats, although they can be removed during play.
Additional reporting by Press Association.
