A tearful Sofia Kenin admitted the pressure of defending a Grand Slam title for the first time had proved too great after she tumbled out of the Australian Open in the second round on Thursday.

The 22-year-old American looked a shadow of the player that won her first major title at Melbourne Park and reached the French Open final last season as she succumbed 6-3 6-2 to Estonian veteran Kaia Kanepi on Margaret Court Arena.

Ashen-faced, with her eyes already blotchy before she sat down for her post-match media conference, Kenin struggled to hold back the tears as she explained what had happened out on court.

"My head wasn't there," she said. "Obviously I'm not going to take any credit away from her. She played really well at those good points.

"I had chances. I just couldn't take it. I obviously know why because the nerves big-time got to me."

The tears returned again when she was asked about the pressure of defending the title, adding that she knew retaining the trophy would be a tall order given her mental state.

"I'm not there 100% physically, mentally, my game. Everything just feels really off obviously. It's not good," she added.

"It's weird. I've been practising for two weeks. Luckily I've been able to practice. I felt fine in practice. Just couldn't do that in the game."

Russian-born Kenin said she had not decided where she would play next but admitted she had a lot of thinking to do about how to arrest the slump in her form.

"I know I couldn't really handle the pressure," she said.

"I'm not obviously used to this, so right now I just got to figure out how to play at that level that I played at. Because like today and those matches, it just hasn't been there."

The exit of the fourth seed, even at the hands of a player who last week was ranked 94th in the world, was not the surprise it might have been given that Kenin had been talking about struggling with her nerves since finishing quarantine.

"The Australia trip, that was something that I had my eye on," she said.

"I knew I was going to have pressure. I knew I was going to have emotions, nerves, everything all together. Yeah, for sure Australia, the Aussie swing, definitely got me."

A tearful Sofia Kenin admitted the pressure of defending a Grand Slam title for the first time had proved too great after she tumbled out of the Australian Open in the second round on Thursday.

A tearful Sofia Kenin admitted the pressure of defending a Grand Slam title for the first time had proved too great after she tumbled out of the Australian Open in the second round on Thursday. The 22-year-old American looked a shadow of the player that won her first major title at Melbourne Park and reached the French Open final last season as she succumbed 6-3 6-2 to Estonian veteran Kaia Kanepi on Margaret Court Arena. Ashen-faced, with her eyes already blotchy before she sat down for her post-match media conference, Kenin struggled to hold back the tears as she explained what had happened out on court. "My head wasn't there," she said. "Obviously I'm not going to take any credit away from her. She played really well at those good points. "I had chances. I just couldn't take it. I obviously know why because the nerves big-time got to me." The tears returned again when she was asked about the pressure of defending the title, adding that she knew retaining the trophy would be a tall order given her mental state. "I'm not there 100% physically, mentally, my game. Everything just feels really off obviously. It's not good," she added. "It's weird. I've been practising for two weeks. Luckily I've been able to practice. I felt fine in practice. Just couldn't do that in the game." Russian-born Kenin said she had not decided where she would play next but admitted she had a lot of thinking to do about how to arrest the slump in her form. "I know I couldn't really handle the pressure," she said. "I'm not obviously used to this, so right now I just got to figure out how to play at that level that I played at. Because like today and those matches, it just hasn't been there." The exit of the fourth seed, even at the hands of a player who last week was ranked 94th in the world, was not the surprise it might have been given that Kenin had been talking about struggling with her nerves since finishing quarantine. "The Australia trip, that was something that I had my eye on," she said. "I knew I was going to have pressure. I knew I was going to have emotions, nerves, everything all together. Yeah, for sure Australia, the Aussie swing, definitely got me."

Tearful Kenin crumbles under pressure of title defence

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei.

Williams, 39, continued her quest to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 Grand Slams with a 6-3, 6-0 romp past 99th-ranked Serbian Nina Stojanovic in just 69 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

"l wasn't thinking as much in the second (set), as I was in the first," said Williams, who hit 27 winners in her 101st Australian Open match while again sporting her unique, one-legged catsuit inspired by track legend 'Flo-Jo'.&nbsp;

"I'm here to have fun and it's great to be playing in front of a crowd."&nbsp;

But eighth seed Andreescu, playing her first tournament since October 2019 after a serious knee injury, could never cope with Hsieh's quirky range of shots and lost 6-3, 6-2 in one hour 23 minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"You need to find a way to get through and the crowd helped me fight," said Hsieh after beating the Canadian, who was coming off a draining three-setter against Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round.&nbsp;

Kvitova, the former Wimbledon champion and Melbourne runner-up in 2019, committed 44 unforced errors in her 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 defeat to Romania's Sorana Cirstea.

But seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka was little troubled in going&nbsp;through 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 against Russia's Daria Kasatkina.

In the men's draw, eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann of Argentina wasted little time in reaching the last 32, brushing aside Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 in an hour and 32 minutes on 1573 Arena.

<h2>- Djokovic affair -</h2>

Later Novak Djokovic will look to continue his Melbourne Park "love affair" and march towards a record-extending ninth title against young American Frances Tiafoe.

Djokovic demolished France's Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 on Monday as the year's first Grand Slam kicked off three weeks late because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"It is an ongoing love affair between me and this court, the Rod Laver Arena," said Djokovic after his opening win.

US Open champion Naomi Osaka will headline the evening session against France's former world number four Caroline Garcia, with the Japanese star seeking her second Australian Open title in three years.

Germany's volatile US Open finalist Alexander Zverev will close out the night session against America's Maxime Cressy.

The fifth seed is known for a short fuse and it showed on Monday as he smashed a racquet during a 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 6-2 win against another Marcos Giron.

The tantrum-prone Nick Kyrgios could also provide fireworks out on his favourite John Cain Arena against France's 29th seed Ugo Humbert.

Austrian third seed and US Open champion Dominic Thiem, last year's runner-up to Djokovic, is the highlight in the afternoon session on Margaret Court Arena against Germany's 70th-ranked Dominik Koepfer.

Women's second seed Simona Halep appeared to have overcome a lower back injury in 6-2, 6-1 romp past wildcard Lizette Cabrera on Monday and faces another Australian, Ajla Tomljanovic, in the night session.

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei.

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei. Williams, 39, continued her quest to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 Grand Slams with a 6-3, 6-0 romp past 99th-ranked Serbian Nina Stojanovic in just 69 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. "l wasn't thinking as much in the second (set), as I was in the first," said Williams, who hit 27 winners in her 101st Australian Open match while again sporting her unique, one-legged catsuit inspired by track legend 'Flo-Jo'. "I'm here to have fun and it's great to be playing in front of a crowd." But eighth seed Andreescu, playing her first tournament since October 2019 after a serious knee injury, could never cope with Hsieh's quirky range of shots and lost 6-3, 6-2 in one hour 23 minutes. "You need to find a way to get through and the crowd helped me fight," said Hsieh after beating the Canadian, who was coming off a draining three-setter against Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round. Kvitova, the former Wimbledon champion and Melbourne runner-up in 2019, committed 44 unforced errors in her 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 defeat to Romania's Sorana Cirstea. But seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka was little troubled in going through 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 against Russia's Daria Kasatkina. In the men's draw, eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann of Argentina wasted little time in reaching the last 32, brushing aside Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 in an hour and 32 minutes on 1573 Arena. - Djokovic affair - Later Novak Djokovic will look to continue his Melbourne Park "love affair" and march towards a record-extending ninth title against young American Frances Tiafoe. Djokovic demolished France's Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 on Monday as the year's first Grand Slam kicked off three weeks late because of the coronavirus pandemic. "It is an ongoing love affair between me and this court, the Rod Laver Arena," said Djokovic after his opening win. US Open champion Naomi Osaka will headline the evening session against France's former world number four Caroline Garcia, with the Japanese star seeking her second Australian Open title in three years. Germany's volatile US Open finalist Alexander Zverev will close out the night session against America's Maxime Cressy. The fifth seed is known for a short fuse and it showed on Monday as he smashed a racquet during a 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 6-2 win against another Marcos Giron. The tantrum-prone Nick Kyrgios could also provide fireworks out on his favourite John Cain Arena against France's 29th seed Ugo Humbert. Austrian third seed and US Open champion Dominic Thiem, last year's runner-up to Djokovic, is the highlight in the afternoon session on Margaret Court Arena against Germany's 70th-ranked Dominik Koepfer. Women's second seed Simona Halep appeared to have overcome a lower back injury in 6-2, 6-1 romp past wildcard Lizette Cabrera on Monday and faces another Australian, Ajla Tomljanovic, in the night session.

Serena sails on, Andreescu comeback halted as Kvitova falls

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win.

The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering".

He motored through his first-round clash against valiant Serb Laslo Djere with little drama, racing to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, victory under blue skies on Rod Laver Arena, but admitted he was still struggling.

"My back is not perfect, as I said a couple of days ago," said the Spaniard, whose only appearance this year had been an exhibition against Dominic Thiem in Adelaide 12 days ago, where he first experienced stiffness in his back.

"Every day that I'm able to go through, probably there are more chances to be better. That's the thing now.&nbsp;

"There is always a chance to improve, and that's why I'm here playing and fighting to try to get better and then give myself a chance."

The injury forced him to make changes in his service action against Djere, who didn't have the weapons to trouble the second seed despite Nadal being below par.

"Today it's not great. I needed to change a little bit the motion of my serve," he said.&nbsp;

"I need to go day-to-day and just try to stay positive. I'm trying to do all the things possible to be ready for compete -- that's what I came here for."

It was his first competitive match since the semi-finals of the ATP Finals in London on November 21.

Nadal raced to a 3-0 first-set lead and wrapped it up before a tougher set two as Djere raised his first serve percentage and got himself in the rallies, with Nadal saving three break points.

But the unrelenting Spaniard was never in jeopardy, dominating off his first serve and outlasting the 56th-ranked Serb on the long rallies.

"I wish him all the best for the rest of the season," Nadal said. "Laslo has a great story. I wish him the best of luck."&nbsp;

The 2009 champion, who has a history of back problems, is looking to edge ahead of Roger Federer in career Slam titles, with both men having 20 to their name.

But the king of clay has often laboured in vain on Melbourne's hardcourts, reaching five finals but only having the one title, falling in the quarter-finals last year to Dominic Thiem.

Nadal next plays either Serb veteran Viktor Troicki or qualifier Michael Mmoh and is on course to meet Greek rising star and fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals.

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win. The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering".

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win. The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering". He motored through his first-round clash against valiant Serb Laslo Djere with little drama, racing to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, victory under blue skies on Rod Laver Arena, but admitted he was still struggling. "My back is not perfect, as I said a couple of days ago," said the Spaniard, whose only appearance this year had been an exhibition against Dominic Thiem in Adelaide 12 days ago, where he first experienced stiffness in his back. "Every day that I'm able to go through, probably there are more chances to be better. That's the thing now. "There is always a chance to improve, and that's why I'm here playing and fighting to try to get better and then give myself a chance." The injury forced him to make changes in his service action against Djere, who didn't have the weapons to trouble the second seed despite Nadal being below par. "Today it's not great. I needed to change a little bit the motion of my serve," he said. "I need to go day-to-day and just try to stay positive. I'm trying to do all the things possible to be ready for compete -- that's what I came here for." It was his first competitive match since the semi-finals of the ATP Finals in London on November 21. Nadal raced to a 3-0 first-set lead and wrapped it up before a tougher set two as Djere raised his first serve percentage and got himself in the rallies, with Nadal saving three break points. But the unrelenting Spaniard was never in jeopardy, dominating off his first serve and outlasting the 56th-ranked Serb on the long rallies. "I wish him all the best for the rest of the season," Nadal said. "Laslo has a great story. I wish him the best of luck." The 2009 champion, who has a history of back problems, is looking to edge ahead of Roger Federer in career Slam titles, with both men having 20 to their name. But the king of clay has often laboured in vain on Melbourne's hardcourts, reaching five finals but only having the one title, falling in the quarter-finals last year to Dominic Thiem. Nadal next plays either Serb veteran Viktor Troicki or qualifier Michael Mmoh and is on course to meet Greek rising star and fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals.

'Not great' - Nadal cruises despite lingering back injury

Naomi Osaka said Venus Williams had an "aura" and Serena hailed her ageless sister as "such an inspiration" after the 40-year-old powered into the Australian Open second round Monday.

Williams, who played her first Australian Open in 1998, battled past fellow veteran Kirsten Flipkens 7-5, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena in her 88th Grand Slam to ensure she lived to fight another day.

World number three Osaka, who also comfortably won, said the seven-time Grand Slam winner had long been a hero and she was amazed at her longevity.

"Ironically I actually interact with Venus more (than Serena)," she said after sweeping past Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-1, 6-2.

"For me, I feel like I do talk about Serena a lot, but Venus is sort of the reason why Serena is where she is."

"Of course, I always love to pay homage to her," she added. I feel like whenever I see her, it's really amazing just to watch how much she loves tennis.

"I see her smiling so much nowadays, so it's really nice to see. She just has this aura of loving the sport and this infectious energy. I hope that I can learn a lot from her."

Sister Serena, who crushed Germany's Laura Siegemund 6-1, 6-1 in the first round at Melbourne Park as she aims for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title, has spent the past few weeks with Venus as her hitting partner.

"She's such an inspiration because she never gets frustrated about her situation, health-wise. She's always looking on the bright side. Then she works so hard. Yeah, she's been great," she said.

Williams was diagnosed with Sjogren's disease in 2011, a condition which leaves her weakened. She took up a vegan diet to stay competitive and combat the illness.

"It was so good to train with her. It was so good every day," added Serena.

"It's also very inspiring because she still pushes me on a level that no one's able to push me, so it was incredibly helpful."

Naomi Osaka said Venus Williams had an "aura" and Serena hailed her ageless sister as "such an inspiration" after the 40-year-old powered into the Australian Open second round Monday.

Naomi Osaka said Venus Williams had an "aura" and Serena hailed her ageless sister as "such an inspiration" after the 40-year-old powered into the Australian Open second round Monday. Williams, who played her first Australian Open in 1998, battled past fellow veteran Kirsten Flipkens 7-5, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena in her 88th Grand Slam to ensure she lived to fight another day. World number three Osaka, who also comfortably won, said the seven-time Grand Slam winner had long been a hero and she was amazed at her longevity. "Ironically I actually interact with Venus more (than Serena)," she said after sweeping past Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-1, 6-2. "For me, I feel like I do talk about Serena a lot, but Venus is sort of the reason why Serena is where she is." "Of course, I always love to pay homage to her," she added. I feel like whenever I see her, it's really amazing just to watch how much she loves tennis. "I see her smiling so much nowadays, so it's really nice to see. She just has this aura of loving the sport and this infectious energy. I hope that I can learn a lot from her." Sister Serena, who crushed Germany's Laura Siegemund 6-1, 6-1 in the first round at Melbourne Park as she aims for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title, has spent the past few weeks with Venus as her hitting partner. "She's such an inspiration because she never gets frustrated about her situation, health-wise. She's always looking on the bright side. Then she works so hard. Yeah, she's been great," she said. Williams was diagnosed with Sjogren's disease in 2011, a condition which leaves her weakened. She took up a vegan diet to stay competitive and combat the illness. "It was so good to train with her. It was so good every day," added Serena. "It's also very inspiring because she still pushes me on a level that no one's able to push me, so it was incredibly helpful."

Serena, Osaka pay homage to Venus after Open win

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title.

The Serbian world number one, who clinched his 17th Grand Slam in last year's gripping Melbourne final against Dominic Thiem, wasted little energy in the 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 romp in just 91 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

The writing was on the wall with Chardy failing to take a set off the Serb in 13 previous meetings.

"It felt great. I mean, I started the match really well, broke his serve and was pretty much a flawless match," he said, adding that he felt "relaxed and comfortable".&nbsp;

"Especially on my service games, I was very dominant. Just overall, I think every shot that I executed tonight was really good and on a high level.

"I'm very pleased with the way I opened up the Australian Open."

Djokovic, chasing an 18th Slam crown to close in on the 20 held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, has likened his relationship with the Australian Open to "a love affair".

And he clearly enjoyed himself, dishing up a masterclass for the socially-distanced fans in the stadium.

"It feels great, so great to see people back in the stadium," he said.

"I'm really glad to see a lot of people actually -- this is the most I've seen on a tennis court in 12 months."

"Sometimes we take these things (crowds) for granted, but very very grateful to see you all," he added.

<h2>- 'Sticking to the game plan' -</h2>

The 33-year-old broke Chardy in the opening game and was never troubled, racing through the set in 32 minutes, with the Frenchman winning just two points off the Serb's service game.

It was similar scenario in a lopsided second set, which only lasted 22 minutes, as Chardy struggled to cope with the ferocity of Djokovic's serving, which routinely clocked in at more than 200 kph (124 mph).

Chardy, who made the semi-finals of the warm-up Murray River Open tournament, surrendered meekly, with Djokovic winning the match with his ninth ace.

"Of course, you are expected to win most of the times as a top player and kind of ease your way through the first rounds," said Djokovic.

"But, you know, I don't see it that way, obviously. You still have to do your job on the court. So I was sticking to the game plan."

The Serb has won a record eight times in Melbourne, the scene of his maiden Grand Slam triumph in 2008, and is unbeaten on the famous blue courts since his shock defeat by South Korea's Hyeon Chung in the 2018 round of 16.

He next faces American Frances Tiafoe in a tricky side of the draw with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka and former world number three Milos Raonic potential obstacles en route to the quarter-finals.

"It's the first time I will face him, he's definitely one of the up-and-coming American tennis players," Djokovic said of Tiafoe. "I'm looking forward to the next challenge."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title. The Serbian world number one, who clinched his 17th Grand Slam in last year's gripping Melbourne final against Dominic Thiem, wasted little energy in the 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 romp in just 91 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. The writing was on the wall with Chardy failing to take a set off the Serb in 13 previous meetings. "It felt great. I mean, I started the match really well, broke his serve and was pretty much a flawless match," he said, adding that he felt "relaxed and comfortable". "Especially on my service games, I was very dominant. Just overall, I think every shot that I executed tonight was really good and on a high level. "I'm very pleased with the way I opened up the Australian Open." Djokovic, chasing an 18th Slam crown to close in on the 20 held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, has likened his relationship with the Australian Open to "a love affair". And he clearly enjoyed himself, dishing up a masterclass for the socially-distanced fans in the stadium. "It feels great, so great to see people back in the stadium," he said. "I'm really glad to see a lot of people actually -- this is the most I've seen on a tennis court in 12 months." "Sometimes we take these things (crowds) for granted, but very very grateful to see you all," he added. - 'Sticking to the game plan' - The 33-year-old broke Chardy in the opening game and was never troubled, racing through the set in 32 minutes, with the Frenchman winning just two points off the Serb's service game. It was similar scenario in a lopsided second set, which only lasted 22 minutes, as Chardy struggled to cope with the ferocity of Djokovic's serving, which routinely clocked in at more than 200 kph (124 mph). Chardy, who made the semi-finals of the warm-up Murray River Open tournament, surrendered meekly, with Djokovic winning the match with his ninth ace. "Of course, you are expected to win most of the times as a top player and kind of ease your way through the first rounds," said Djokovic. "But, you know, I don't see it that way, obviously. You still have to do your job on the court. So I was sticking to the game plan." The Serb has won a record eight times in Melbourne, the scene of his maiden Grand Slam triumph in 2008, and is unbeaten on the famous blue courts since his shock defeat by South Korea's Hyeon Chung in the 2018 round of 16. He next faces American Frances Tiafoe in a tricky side of the draw with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka and former world number three Milos Raonic potential obstacles en route to the quarter-finals. "It's the first time I will face him, he's definitely one of the up-and-coming American tennis players," Djokovic said of Tiafoe. "I'm looking forward to the next challenge."

'Flawless' Djokovic crushes Chardy in Australian Open warning

Novak Djokovic has not endeared himself to fans over the past year, but the Australian Open's undisputed king will take some stopping as he targets a record-extending ninth title at Melbourne Park.

Also&nbsp;see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-djokovic-to-nadal-five-mens-singles-players-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-2021-361589" hreflang="en">From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021</a>

Djokovic claimed his 17th Grand Slam crown in last year's gripping final when he came back from 2-1 down to edge Austria's Dominic Thiem in five sets.

The Serbian's eighth victory in 16 visits reinforced his dominance in Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena, where he claimed his first Grand Slam title in 2008 and has won seven of the last 10 editions.

Rafael Nadal and Thiem look to be his biggest rivals at this year's tournament, with six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer sidelined as he recovers from double knee surgery.

The Australian Open was the highlight of a mesmerising early 2020 season for Djokovic, who won his first four tournaments of the year.

However, off-court, things soon unravelled for the elastic-limbed world number one.

After tennis went into lockdown because of the coronavirus pandemic, Djokovic launched the ill-fated Adria Tour in June, with no social distancing and players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub.

Djokovic and his wife Jelena were among a number of people to subsequently test positive for the virus, with Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also falling ill.

<h2>Line judge row&nbsp;</h2>

Worse was to come when tennis resumed and Djokovic defaulted out of the US&nbsp;Open in sensational fashion, when he angrily swiped away a ball that accidentally hit a female line judge in the throat.

His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice then ended in a straight-sets defeat to Nadal in the French Open final.

Djokovic also drew negative comment in August for launching the Professional Tennis Players&nbsp;Association, a breakaway group outside the men's tour, as tennis attempted to get back on its feet.

And he found himself labelled a "tool" by Australia's Nick Kyrgios after requesting better conditions for players during Australia's mandatory quarantine, including private houses with tennis courts.

Despite the off-court turbulence, Djokovic enjoys strong support in Melbourne -- which has a sizeable Serbian population -- and said Rod Laver Arena brings back "beautiful memories".

"It does feel like a home for me in Australia, in Melbourne, particularly in Rod Laver," he said.&nbsp;

"That is by far my most successful tennis court in my career. Had some profound memories in the last 15 years, and you know, won my first Grand Slam back in 2008.&nbsp;

"Had probably the most exciting matches played on this court, and definitely the longest match ever that I played was in the finals, almost six hours with Rafa (Nadal) in 2012."

Nadal will undoubtedly figure prominently in the tournament but it is now 12 years since he won his lone title in Melbourne, despite four more trips to the final.

The Spaniard also has fitness concerns after he pulled out of the ATP Cup during warm-up week with a sore back.

Thiem came agonisingly close to victory last year and, buoyed by his first Grand Slam title at the US Open, will be confident against anyone in the draw -- including Djokovic, against whom he has won five of their last seven meetings.

Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas are also among the top contenders at a tournament where form is difficult to judge, with playing opportunities hard to come by during the pandemic.

Novak Djokovic has not endeared himself to fans over the past year, but the Australian Open's undisputed king will take some stopping as he targets a record-extending ninth title at Melbourne Park.

Novak Djokovic has not endeared himself to fans over the past year, but the Australian Open's undisputed king will take some stopping as he targets a record-extending ninth title at Melbourne Park. Also see| From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021 Djokovic claimed his 17th Grand Slam crown in last year's gripping final when he came back from 2-1 down to edge Austria's Dominic Thiem in five sets. The Serbian's eighth victory in 16 visits reinforced his dominance in Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena, where he claimed his first Grand Slam title in 2008 and has won seven of the last 10 editions. Rafael Nadal and Thiem look to be his biggest rivals at this year's tournament, with six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer sidelined as he recovers from double knee surgery. The Australian Open was the highlight of a mesmerising early 2020 season for Djokovic, who won his first four tournaments of the year. However, off-court, things soon unravelled for the elastic-limbed world number one. After tennis went into lockdown because of the coronavirus pandemic, Djokovic launched the ill-fated Adria Tour in June, with no social distancing and players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub. Djokovic and his wife Jelena were among a number of people to subsequently test positive for the virus, with Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also falling ill. Line judge row Worse was to come when tennis resumed and Djokovic defaulted out of the US Open in sensational fashion, when he angrily swiped away a ball that accidentally hit a female line judge in the throat. His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice then ended in a straight-sets defeat to Nadal in the French Open final. Djokovic also drew negative comment in August for launching the Professional Tennis Players Association, a breakaway group outside the men's tour, as tennis attempted to get back on its feet. And he found himself labelled a "tool" by Australia's Nick Kyrgios after requesting better conditions for players during Australia's mandatory quarantine, including private houses with tennis courts. Despite the off-court turbulence, Djokovic enjoys strong support in Melbourne -- which has a sizeable Serbian population -- and said Rod Laver Arena brings back "beautiful memories". "It does feel like a home for me in Australia, in Melbourne, particularly in Rod Laver," he said. "That is by far my most successful tennis court in my career. Had some profound memories in the last 15 years, and you know, won my first Grand Slam back in 2008. "Had probably the most exciting matches played on this court, and definitely the longest match ever that I played was in the finals, almost six hours with Rafa (Nadal) in 2012." Nadal will undoubtedly figure prominently in the tournament but it is now 12 years since he won his lone title in Melbourne, despite four more trips to the final. The Spaniard also has fitness concerns after he pulled out of the ATP Cup during warm-up week with a sore back. Thiem came agonisingly close to victory last year and, buoyed by his first Grand Slam title at the US Open, will be confident against anyone in the draw -- including Djokovic, against whom he has won five of their last seven meetings. Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas are also among the top contenders at a tournament where form is difficult to judge, with playing opportunities hard to come by during the pandemic.

Who can stop Djokovic? Controversial king eyes ninth Aussie crown

British tennis player Dan Evans won his first ATP Tour title with a dominating win over Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Murray River Open final on Sunday. The Briton crashed the Canadian 6-2, 6-3 to capture his first title.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-have-much-respect-for-him-novak-djokovic-hits-back-at-nick-kyrgios-361938" hreflang="en">'I don't have much respect for him': Novak Djokovic hits back at Nick Kyrgios</a>

Dan broke serve five times in the Australian Open warm-up event and defeated Auger-Aliassime within 77 minutes. Felix now has lost all seven finals he has played in.

The 30-year-old Briton took advantage of Canadian's mistake to break twice in the opening set and take control.

ALSO SEE|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-djokovic-to-nadal-five-mens-singles-players-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-2021-361589" hreflang="en">From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021</a>

He did not let up in the second, the only blip coming when he was broken while serving for the match at 5-2. However, Evans produced an instant response to break back and seal the victory.

The ATP Tour Title will give Evans some much-needed morale boost ahead of the year's first Grand Slam (Australian Open 2021) which is set to kick off on February 8. The British ace has never gone beyond the second round of the Grand Slam since 2017.&nbsp;

Dan Evans will be facing Cameron Norrie in the first round on Tuesday.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Reuters)

British tennis player Dan Evans won his first ATP Tour title with a dominating win over Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Murray River Open final on Sunday. The Briton crashed the Canadian 6-2, 6-3 to capture his first title.

British tennis player Dan Evans won his first ATP Tour title with a dominating win over Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Murray River Open final on Sunday. The Briton crashed the Canadian 6-2, 6-3 to capture his first title. ALSO READ: 'I don't have much respect for him': Novak Djokovic hits back at Nick Kyrgios Dan broke serve five times in the Australian Open warm-up event and defeated Auger-Aliassime within 77 minutes. Felix now has lost all seven finals he has played in. The 30-year-old Briton took advantage of Canadian's mistake to break twice in the opening set and take control. ALSO SEE| From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021 He did not let up in the second, the only blip coming when he was broken while serving for the match at 5-2. However, Evans produced an instant response to break back and seal the victory. The ATP Tour Title will give Evans some much-needed morale boost ahead of the year's first Grand Slam (Australian Open 2021) which is set to kick off on February 8. The British ace has never gone beyond the second round of the Grand Slam since 2017. Dan Evans will be facing Cameron Norrie in the first round on Tuesday. (Inputs from Reuters)

Murray River Open: Dan Evans wins his first ATP Tour title after beating Felix Auger-Aliassime

Australia`s second-most populous state of Victoria reported no local novel coronavirus cases on Saturday for the second straight day, tapering down concerns about the Australian Open tennis tournament due to start in Melbourne on Monday.

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-naomi-osaka-to-sofia-kenin-here-are-five-women-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-361564" hreflang="en">From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open</a> 
 
More than 500 staff and players at the event, the year`s first Grand Slam, tested negative for the novel coronavirus on Friday in re-testing required after a worker at their quarantine hotel caught the virus. 
 
Positive cases could have spurred a lockdown or more limits on spectators attending the tournament.

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-djokovic-to-nadal-five-mens-singles-players-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-2021-361589" hreflang="en">From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021</a> 
 
Some 800,000 people attended the event last year but due to the pandemic authorities have approved 30,000 fans per day, about 50% capacity. 
 
Qualifying matches were cancelled on Thursday while test results were pending. 
 
The Victorian government has ruled that, except for players, masks will be mandatory for matches played under a closed roof. Following the most recent case, masks are required in all indoor spaces in Victoria. 
 
"That applies to the stadia at the Australian Open when the roofs are closed, it`s like any other indoor setting," Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said at a press conference on Saturday. 
 
Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Twitter that there was no new community coronavirus case across the whole of Australia Saturday. 
 
"That makes zero on 16 of the last 18 days," Hunt wrote. 
 
EXCITED TO PLAY 
 
Australia has been far more successful than most advanced economies in managing the pandemic, with total infections at under 29,000 and 909 deaths so far. 
 
This came thanks to strict and swift measures, high rates of community compliance and aggressive testing and tracing. 
 
The country`s borders have been closed since March of last year, meaning there will be almost no fans from abroad at the Australian Open. 
 
More than 1,000 staff and players arriving from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine in Melbourne, leading to complaints from some frustrated players. 
 
However, seven-times champion Serena Williams defended the mandatory quarantine procedures on Saturday. 
 
"I think it was the best thing for all the players to do," the 23-times Grand Slam champion told reporters at Melbourne Park. "Even to have an opportunity to come and play was super exciting. 
 
"I didn`t have really any negatives. I realized that my life is one big quarantine because I don`t really leave the house much. It wasn`t much different than what I normally do."

Australia`s second-most populous state of Victoria reported no local novel coronavirus cases on Saturday for the second straight day, tapering down concerns about the Australian Open tennis tournament due to start in Melbourne on Monday.

Australia`s second-most populous state of Victoria reported no local novel coronavirus cases on Saturday for the second straight day, tapering down concerns about the Australian Open tennis tournament due to start in Melbourne on Monday. ALSO SEE: From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open More than 500 staff and players at the event, the year`s first Grand Slam, tested negative for the novel coronavirus on Friday in re-testing required after a worker at their quarantine hotel caught the virus. Positive cases could have spurred a lockdown or more limits on spectators attending the tournament. ALSO SEE: From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021 Some 800,000 people attended the event last year but due to the pandemic authorities have approved 30,000 fans per day, about 50% capacity. Qualifying matches were cancelled on Thursday while test results were pending. The Victorian government has ruled that, except for players, masks will be mandatory for matches played under a closed roof. Following the most recent case, masks are required in all indoor spaces in Victoria. "That applies to the stadia at the Australian Open when the roofs are closed, it`s like any other indoor setting," Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said at a press conference on Saturday. Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Twitter that there was no new community coronavirus case across the whole of Australia Saturday. "That makes zero on 16 of the last 18 days," Hunt wrote. EXCITED TO PLAY Australia has been far more successful than most advanced economies in managing the pandemic, with total infections at under 29,000 and 909 deaths so far. This came thanks to strict and swift measures, high rates of community compliance and aggressive testing and tracing. The country`s borders have been closed since March of last year, meaning there will be almost no fans from abroad at the Australian Open. More than 1,000 staff and players arriving from abroad were put into a two-week quarantine in Melbourne, leading to complaints from some frustrated players. However, seven-times champion Serena Williams defended the mandatory quarantine procedures on Saturday. "I think it was the best thing for all the players to do," the 23-times Grand Slam champion told reporters at Melbourne Park. "Even to have an opportunity to come and play was super exciting. "I didn`t have really any negatives. I realized that my life is one big quarantine because I don`t really leave the house much. It wasn`t much different than what I normally do."

Australian Open concerns ease as Victoria records no new COVID-19 cases

Serena Williams is "super confident" her injured shoulder will hold up for the Australian Open and says she feels more relaxed about the "burden" of bidding for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title. 
 
Williams, a seven-times champion at Melbourne Park, pulled out of the warmup Yarra Valley Classic on Friday, robbing the tournament of a marquee semi-final with world number one and home hero Ash Barty. 
 
The American great said she would have to manage her shoulder through the Australian Open but was feeling "pretty good". 
 
"I`ve gotten a lot of treatment already on my shoulder," Williams told reporters at Melbourne Park on Saturday. 
 
"But I`m super confident it`s going to be great. I`m feeling very confident, I think is a better word, and getting ready for hopefully the next two weeks." 
 
Williams, who opens her tournament against unseeded German Laura Siegemund, won the last of her 23 Grand Slam titles four years ago at Melbourne Park when in the early stages of pregnancy. 
 
Despite making four Grand Slam finals since motherhood, the 39-year-old remains one short of Margaret Court`s all-time record. 
 
"It`s definitely on my shoulders and on my mind," she said of the record. 
 
"I think it`s good to be on my mind. I think it`s a different burden, I should say, on my shoulders because I`m used to it now. It`s more relaxing I would like to say, yeah." 
 
Williams has beaten 51st-ranked Siegemund in both their previous matches, including the quarter-finals of last year`s Auckland Classic in the leadup to the 2020 Australian Open. 
 
"She has a different game," said Williams. 
 
"She mixes up the pace a lot. It will be a really good match for me to get in there early and play my best."

Serena Williams is "super confident" her injured shoulder will hold up for the Australian Open and says she feels more relaxed about the "burden" of bidding for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.

Serena Williams is "super confident" her injured shoulder will hold up for the Australian Open and says she feels more relaxed about the "burden" of bidding for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title. Williams, a seven-times champion at Melbourne Park, pulled out of the warmup Yarra Valley Classic on Friday, robbing the tournament of a marquee semi-final with world number one and home hero Ash Barty. The American great said she would have to manage her shoulder through the Australian Open but was feeling "pretty good". "I`ve gotten a lot of treatment already on my shoulder," Williams told reporters at Melbourne Park on Saturday. "But I`m super confident it`s going to be great. I`m feeling very confident, I think is a better word, and getting ready for hopefully the next two weeks." Williams, who opens her tournament against unseeded German Laura Siegemund, won the last of her 23 Grand Slam titles four years ago at Melbourne Park when in the early stages of pregnancy. Despite making four Grand Slam finals since motherhood, the 39-year-old remains one short of Margaret Court`s all-time record. "It`s definitely on my shoulders and on my mind," she said of the record. "I think it`s good to be on my mind. I think it`s a different burden, I should say, on my shoulders because I`m used to it now. It`s more relaxing I would like to say, yeah." Williams has beaten 51st-ranked Siegemund in both their previous matches, including the quarter-finals of last year`s Auckland Classic in the leadup to the 2020 Australian Open. "She has a different game," said Williams. "She mixes up the pace a lot. It will be a really good match for me to get in there early and play my best."

Serena shrugs off shoulder issue, ''relaxed'' about Slam record bid

From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021

From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy while reigning women's champion Sofia Kenin locks horns with wild card Maddison Inglis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/furious-nick-kyrgios-smashes-racquet-and-throws-it-in-stands-during-murray-river-open-361473" hreflang="en">Furious Nick Kyrgios' smashes racquet and throws it in stands during Murray River Open</a>

Spanish ace Rafael Nadal will clash with Serbia's Laslo Djere in his opener, hoping to win the Grand Slam and overtaking Roger Federer, who has 20 major titles to his name. The Swiss star will not be playing this year due to knee injury.&nbsp;

Women's world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will take on Danka Kovinic in her quest to become the first homegrown singles winner at the Australian Open since 1978.&nbsp;

American star Serena Williams, who is hopeful of record-equalling 24th Grand Slam, will take on Laura Siegemund in the opening round.

<h2>SEEDS:&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Men's singles</h2>

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB), 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP), 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT, 4. Daniil Medvedev (RUS), 5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE), 6. Alexander Zverev (GER), 7. Andrey Rublev (RUS), 8. Diego Schwartzman (ARG), 9. Matteo Berrettini (ITA), 10. Gael Monfils (FRA), 11. Denis Shapovalov (CAN), 12. Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP), 13. David Goffin (BEL), 14. Milos Raonic (CAN), 15. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP), 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA), 17. Stan Wawrinka (SUI), 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL), 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS), 20. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN), 21. Alex de Minaur (AUS), 22. Borna Coric (CRO), 23. Dusan Lajovic (SRB), 24. Casper Ruud (NOR), 25. Benoit Paire (FRA), 26. Hubert Hurkacz (POL), 27. Taylor Fritz (USA), 28. Filip Krajinovic (SRB), 29. Ugo Humbert (FRA), Dan Evans (GBR)

<h2> 
Women's singles</h2>

1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS), 2. Simona Halep (ROU), 3. Naomi Osaka (JPN), 4. Sofia Kenin (USA), 5. Elina Svitolina (UKR), 6. Karolina Pliskova (CZE), 7. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR), 8. Bianca Andreescu (CAN), 9. Petra Kvitova (CZE), 10. Serena Williams (USA), 11. Belinda Bencic (SUI), 12. Victoria Azarenka (BLR), 13. Johanna Konta (GBR), 14. Garbine Muguruza (ESP), 15. Iga Swiatek (POL), 16. Petra Martic (CRO), 17. Elena Rybakina (KAZ), 18. Elise Mertens (BEL), 19. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE), 20. Maria Sakkari (GRE), 21. Anita Kontaveit (EST), 22. Jennifer Brady (USA), 23. Angelique Kerber (GER), 24. Alison Riske (USA), 25. Karolina Muchova (CZE), 26. Yulia Putintseva (KAZ), 27. Ons Jabeur (TUN), 28. Donna Vekic (CRO), 29. Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS), 30. Wang Qiang (CHN), 31. Zhang Shuai (CHN), 32. Veronika Kudermetova (RUS)&nbsp;

<h2> 
Australian Open 2021 DRAW:&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Men's Singles:&nbsp;</h2>

Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Jeremy Chardy (FRA)

Frances Tiafoe (USA) v Stefano Travaglia (ITA)

Reilly Opelka (USA) v Lu Yen-hsun (TPE)

Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ESP) v Taylor Fritz (USA

Stan Wawrinka (SUI x17) v Pedro Sousa (POR)

Martin Fucsovics (HUN) v Marc Polmans AUS

Corentin Moutet (FRA) v John Millman (AUS)

Federico Coria (ARG) v Milos Raonic (CAN x14)

Gael Monfils (FRA x10) v Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN)

Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) v Pedro Martinez (ESP)

Aljaz Bedene (SLO) v Alexander Bublik (KAZ)

Sergiy Stakhovsky (UKR) v Dusan Lajovic (SRB x23)

Adrian Mannarino (FRA x32) v Dennis Novak (AUT)

Moimir Kecmanovic (SRB) v Kamil Majchrzak (POL)

Taro Daniel (JPN) v Maxime Cressy (USA)

Marcos Giron (USA) v Alexander Zverev (GER x6)

Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) v Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ)

Dominik Koepfer (GER) v Hugo Dellien (BOL)

Frederico Ferreira Silva (POR) v Nick Kyrgios (AUS)

Yasutaka Uchiyama (JPN) v Ugo Humbert (FRA x29)

Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) v Marin Cilic (CRO)

Alex Bolt (AUS) v Norbert Gombos (SVK)

Kimmer Coppejans (BEL) v Jiri Vesely (CZE)

Kei Nishikori (JPN) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x15)

Denis Shapovalov (CAN x11) v Jannik Sinner (ITA)

Yuichi Sugita (JPN) v Bernard Tomic (AUS)

Damir Dzumhur (BIH) v James Duckworth (AUS)

Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) v Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN x20)&nbsp;

Benoit Paire (FRA x 25) v Egor Gerasimov (BLR)

Gianluca Mager (ITA) v Aslan Karatsev (RUS)

Federico Delbonis (ARG) v Juan Ignacio Londero (ARG)

Elias Ymer (SWE) v Diego Schwartzman (ARG x8)

Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) v Yannick Hanfmann (GER)

Thiago Monteiro (BRA) v Andrej Martin (SVK)

Li Tu (AUS) v Feliciano Lopez (ESP)

Sam Querrey (USA) v Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x31)&nbsp;

Casper Ruud (NOR x24) v Jordan Thompson (AUS)

Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) v Tommy Paul (USA)

Christopher O'Connell (AUS) v Jan-Lennard Struff (GER)

Radu Albot (MDA) v Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x12)

David Goffin (BEL x13) v Alexei Popyrin (AUS)

Lloyd HARRIS (RSA) v Mikael Torpegaard (DEN)

Mackenzie McDonald (USA) v Marco Cecchinato (ITA)

Guido Pella (ARG) v Borna Coric (CRO x22)

Filip Krajinovic (SRB x28) v Robin Haase (NED)

Pablo Andujar (ESP) v Quentin Halys (FRA)

Roberto Carballes Baena (ESP) v Attila Balazs (HUN)

Vasek Pospisil (CAN) v Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4)

Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) v Gilles Simon (FRA)

Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) v Kwon Soon-woo (KOR)

Botic Van de Zandshhulp (NED) v Carlos Alcaraz (ESP)

Mikael Ymer (SWE) v Hubert Hurkacz (POL x26)

Karen Khachanov (RUS x19) v Aleksander Vukic (AUS)

Ricardas Berankis (LTU) v Sumit Nagal (IND)

Tomas Machac (CZE) v Mario Vilella Martinez (ESP)

Kevin Anderson (RSA) v Matteo Berrettini (ITA x9)

Fabio Fognini (ITA x16) v Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA)

Henri Laaksonen (SUI) v Salvatore Caruso (ITA)

Pablo Cuevas (URU) v Andreas Seppi (ITA)

Tennys Sandgren (USA) v Alex De Minaur (AUS x21)

Dan Evans (GBR x30) v Cameron Norrie (GBR)

Ilya Ivashka (BLR) v Roman Safiullin (RUS)

Michael Mmoh (USA) v Victor Troicki (SRB)

Laslo Djere (SRB) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2)

<h2>Women's Singles:&nbsp;</h2>

Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) v Danka Kovinic (MNE)

Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP) v Daria Gavrilova (AUS)

Zheng Saisai (CHN) v Barbora Krejcikova (CZE)&nbsp;

Martina Trevisan (ITA) v Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS x29)

Anett Kontaveit (EST x21) v Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR)

Kristyna Pliskova (CZE) v Heather Watson (GBR)

Francesca Jones (GBR) v Shelby Rogers (USA)

Olga Danilovic (SRB) v Petra Martic (CRO x16)

Belinda Bencic (SUI x11) v Lauren Davis (USA)

Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) v Barbora Strycova (CZE)

Lin Zhu (CHN) v Whitney Osuigwe (USA)

Leylah Fernandez (CAN) v Elise Mertens (BEL x18)&nbsp;

Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) v Jelena Ostapenko (LAT)

Mona Barthel (GER) v Elisabetta Cocciaretto (ITA)

Danielle Collins (USA) v Ana Bogdan (ROM)

Jasmine Paolini (ITA) v Karolina Pliskova (CZE x6)

Sofia Kenin (USA x4) v Maddison Inglis (AUS)

Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) v Kaia Kanepi (EST)

Nadia Podoroska (ARG) v Christina McHale (USA)&nbsp;

Wang Yafan (CHN) v Donna Vekic (CRO x28)

Jennifer Brady (USA x22) v Aliona Bolsova (ESP)

Madison Brengle (USA) v Arina Rodionova (AUS)

Chloe Paquet (FRA) v Mayar Sherif (EGY)&nbsp;

Kaja Juvan (SLO) v Johanna Konta (GBR x13)

Victoria Azarenka (BLR x12) v Jessica Pegula (USA)&nbsp;

Destanee Aiava (AUS) v Samantha Stosur (AUS)

Nao Hibino (JPN) v Astra Sharma (AUS)&nbsp;

Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) v Maria Sakkari (GRE x20)

Yulia Putinseva (KAZ x26) v Sloane Stephens (USA)&nbsp;

Alison Van Uytvanck (BEL) v Clara Burel (FRA)

Coco Gauff (USA) v Jil Teichmann (SUI)

Marie Bouzkova v Elina Svitolina (UKR x5)

Bianca Andreescu (CAN x8) v &nbsp;Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROM)

Hsieh Su-wei (TPE) v Tsvetana Pironkova (BUL)

Kirsten Flipkens (BEL) v Venus Williams (USA) 71

Sara Errani (ITA) v Wang Qiang (CHN x30)

Marketa Vondrousova (CZE x19)v Rebecca Peterson (SWE)

Rebecca Marino (CAN) v Kimberly Birrell (AUS)

Patricia Maria Tig (ROM) v Sorana Cirstea (ROU)

Greet Minnen (BEL) v Petra Kvitova (CZE x9)

Garbine Muguruza (ESP x14) v Margarita Gasparayan (RUS)

Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) v Paula Badosa (ESP)

Zarina Diyas (KAZ) v Tamara Zidansek (SLO)&nbsp;

Bernarda Pera (USA) v Angelique Kerber (GER x23)

Ons Jabeur (TUN x27) v Andrea Petkovic (GER)&nbsp;

Mayo Hibi (JPN) v Anna Karolina Schmiedlova (SVK)

Polona Hercog (SLO) v Caroline Garcia (FRA)&nbsp;

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova v Naomi Osaka (JPN x3)

Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x7) v Viktoria Kuzmova (SVK)

Katie Boulter (GBR) v Daria Kasatkina (RUS)

Alize Cornet (FRA) v Valeria Savinykh (RUS)&nbsp;

Ann Li (USA)v Zhang Shuai (CHN x31)

Alison Riske (USA x24) v Anastasia Potapova (RUS)

Timea Babos (HUN) v Ysaline Bonaventure (BEL)

Nina Stojanovic (SRB) v Irina-Camelia Begu (ROU)

Laura Siegemund (GER) v Serena Williams (USA x10)

Iga Swiatek (POL x15) v Arantxa Rus (NED)

Yaroslava Shedova (KAZ) v Camila Giorgi (ITA)

Fiona Ferro (FRA) v Katerina Siniakova (CZE)

Vera Zvonareva (RUS) v Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17)

Veronika Kudermetova (RUS x32) v Marta Kostyuk (UKR)

Varvara Gracheva (RUS) v Anna Blinkova (RUS)

Misaki Doi (JPN) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS)

Lizette Cabrera (AUS) v Simona Halep (ROM x2)

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no.

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy while reigning women's champion Sofia Kenin locks horns with wild card Maddison Inglis. ALSO READ: Furious Nick Kyrgios' smashes racquet and throws it in stands during Murray River Open Spanish ace Rafael Nadal will clash with Serbia's Laslo Djere in his opener, hoping to win the Grand Slam and overtaking Roger Federer, who has 20 major titles to his name. The Swiss star will not be playing this year due to knee injury. Women's world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will take on Danka Kovinic in her quest to become the first homegrown singles winner at the Australian Open since 1978. American star Serena Williams, who is hopeful of record-equalling 24th Grand Slam, will take on Laura Siegemund in the opening round. SEEDS: Men's singles 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB), 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP), 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT, 4. Daniil Medvedev (RUS), 5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE), 6. Alexander Zverev (GER), 7. Andrey Rublev (RUS), 8. Diego Schwartzman (ARG), 9. Matteo Berrettini (ITA), 10. Gael Monfils (FRA), 11. Denis Shapovalov (CAN), 12. Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP), 13. David Goffin (BEL), 14. Milos Raonic (CAN), 15. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP), 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA), 17. Stan Wawrinka (SUI), 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL), 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS), 20. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN), 21. Alex de Minaur (AUS), 22. Borna Coric (CRO), 23. Dusan Lajovic (SRB), 24. Casper Ruud (NOR), 25. Benoit Paire (FRA), 26. Hubert Hurkacz (POL), 27. Taylor Fritz (USA), 28. Filip Krajinovic (SRB), 29. Ugo Humbert (FRA), Dan Evans (GBR) Women's singles 1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS), 2. Simona Halep (ROU), 3. Naomi Osaka (JPN), 4. Sofia Kenin (USA), 5. Elina Svitolina (UKR), 6. Karolina Pliskova (CZE), 7. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR), 8. Bianca Andreescu (CAN), 9. Petra Kvitova (CZE), 10. Serena Williams (USA), 11. Belinda Bencic (SUI), 12. Victoria Azarenka (BLR), 13. Johanna Konta (GBR), 14. Garbine Muguruza (ESP), 15. Iga Swiatek (POL), 16. Petra Martic (CRO), 17. Elena Rybakina (KAZ), 18. Elise Mertens (BEL), 19. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE), 20. Maria Sakkari (GRE), 21. Anita Kontaveit (EST), 22. Jennifer Brady (USA), 23. Angelique Kerber (GER), 24. Alison Riske (USA), 25. Karolina Muchova (CZE), 26. Yulia Putintseva (KAZ), 27. Ons Jabeur (TUN), 28. Donna Vekic (CRO), 29. Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS), 30. Wang Qiang (CHN), 31. Zhang Shuai (CHN), 32. Veronika Kudermetova (RUS) Australian Open 2021 DRAW: Men's Singles: Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Jeremy Chardy (FRA) Frances Tiafoe (USA) v Stefano Travaglia (ITA) Reilly Opelka (USA) v Lu Yen-hsun (TPE) Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ESP) v Taylor Fritz (USA Stan Wawrinka (SUI x17) v Pedro Sousa (POR) Martin Fucsovics (HUN) v Marc Polmans AUS Corentin Moutet (FRA) v John Millman (AUS) Federico Coria (ARG) v Milos Raonic (CAN x14) Gael Monfils (FRA x10) v Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN) Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) v Pedro Martinez (ESP) Aljaz Bedene (SLO) v Alexander Bublik (KAZ) Sergiy Stakhovsky (UKR) v Dusan Lajovic (SRB x23) Adrian Mannarino (FRA x32) v Dennis Novak (AUT) Moimir Kecmanovic (SRB) v Kamil Majchrzak (POL) Taro Daniel (JPN) v Maxime Cressy (USA) Marcos Giron (USA) v Alexander Zverev (GER x6) Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) v Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ) Dominik Koepfer (GER) v Hugo Dellien (BOL) Frederico Ferreira Silva (POR) v Nick Kyrgios (AUS) Yasutaka Uchiyama (JPN) v Ugo Humbert (FRA x29) Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) v Marin Cilic (CRO) Alex Bolt (AUS) v Norbert Gombos (SVK) Kimmer Coppejans (BEL) v Jiri Vesely (CZE) Kei Nishikori (JPN) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x15) Denis Shapovalov (CAN x11) v Jannik Sinner (ITA) Yuichi Sugita (JPN) v Bernard Tomic (AUS) Damir Dzumhur (BIH) v James Duckworth (AUS) Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) v Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN x20) Benoit Paire (FRA x 25) v Egor Gerasimov (BLR) Gianluca Mager (ITA) v Aslan Karatsev (RUS) Federico Delbonis (ARG) v Juan Ignacio Londero (ARG) Elias Ymer (SWE) v Diego Schwartzman (ARG x8) Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) v Yannick Hanfmann (GER) Thiago Monteiro (BRA) v Andrej Martin (SVK) Li Tu (AUS) v Feliciano Lopez (ESP) Sam Querrey (USA) v Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x31) Casper Ruud (NOR x24) v Jordan Thompson (AUS) Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) v Tommy Paul (USA) Christopher O'Connell (AUS) v Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) Radu Albot (MDA) v Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x12) David Goffin (BEL x13) v Alexei Popyrin (AUS) Lloyd HARRIS (RSA) v Mikael Torpegaard (DEN) Mackenzie McDonald (USA) v Marco Cecchinato (ITA) Guido Pella (ARG) v Borna Coric (CRO x22) Filip Krajinovic (SRB x28) v Robin Haase (NED) Pablo Andujar (ESP) v Quentin Halys (FRA) Roberto Carballes Baena (ESP) v Attila Balazs (HUN) Vasek Pospisil (CAN) v Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4) Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) v Gilles Simon (FRA) Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) v Kwon Soon-woo (KOR) Botic Van de Zandshhulp (NED) v Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) Mikael Ymer (SWE) v Hubert Hurkacz (POL x26) Karen Khachanov (RUS x19) v Aleksander Vukic (AUS) Ricardas Berankis (LTU) v Sumit Nagal (IND) Tomas Machac (CZE) v Mario Vilella Martinez (ESP) Kevin Anderson (RSA) v Matteo Berrettini (ITA x9) Fabio Fognini (ITA x16) v Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) Henri Laaksonen (SUI) v Salvatore Caruso (ITA) Pablo Cuevas (URU) v Andreas Seppi (ITA) Tennys Sandgren (USA) v Alex De Minaur (AUS x21) Dan Evans (GBR x30) v Cameron Norrie (GBR) Ilya Ivashka (BLR) v Roman Safiullin (RUS) Michael Mmoh (USA) v Victor Troicki (SRB) Laslo Djere (SRB) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Women's Singles: Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) v Danka Kovinic (MNE) Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP) v Daria Gavrilova (AUS) Zheng Saisai (CHN) v Barbora Krejcikova (CZE) Martina Trevisan (ITA) v Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS x29) Anett Kontaveit (EST x21) v Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR) Kristyna Pliskova (CZE) v Heather Watson (GBR) Francesca Jones (GBR) v Shelby Rogers (USA) Olga Danilovic (SRB) v Petra Martic (CRO x16) Belinda Bencic (SUI x11) v Lauren Davis (USA) Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) v Barbora Strycova (CZE) Lin Zhu (CHN) v Whitney Osuigwe (USA) Leylah Fernandez (CAN) v Elise Mertens (BEL x18) Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) v Jelena Ostapenko (LAT) Mona Barthel (GER) v Elisabetta Cocciaretto (ITA) Danielle Collins (USA) v Ana Bogdan (ROM) Jasmine Paolini (ITA) v Karolina Pliskova (CZE x6) Sofia Kenin (USA x4) v Maddison Inglis (AUS) Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) v Kaia Kanepi (EST) Nadia Podoroska (ARG) v Christina McHale (USA) Wang Yafan (CHN) v Donna Vekic (CRO x28) Jennifer Brady (USA x22) v Aliona Bolsova (ESP) Madison Brengle (USA) v Arina Rodionova (AUS) Chloe Paquet (FRA) v Mayar Sherif (EGY) Kaja Juvan (SLO) v Johanna Konta (GBR x13) Victoria Azarenka (BLR x12) v Jessica Pegula (USA) Destanee Aiava (AUS) v Samantha Stosur (AUS) Nao Hibino (JPN) v Astra Sharma (AUS) Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) v Maria Sakkari (GRE x20) Yulia Putinseva (KAZ x26) v Sloane Stephens (USA) Alison Van Uytvanck (BEL) v Clara Burel (FRA) Coco Gauff (USA) v Jil Teichmann (SUI) Marie Bouzkova v Elina Svitolina (UKR x5) Bianca Andreescu (CAN x8) v Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROM) Hsieh Su-wei (TPE) v Tsvetana Pironkova (BUL) Kirsten Flipkens (BEL) v Venus Williams (USA) 71 Sara Errani (ITA) v Wang Qiang (CHN x30) Marketa Vondrousova (CZE x19)v Rebecca Peterson (SWE) Rebecca Marino (CAN) v Kimberly Birrell (AUS) Patricia Maria Tig (ROM) v Sorana Cirstea (ROU) Greet Minnen (BEL) v Petra Kvitova (CZE x9) Garbine Muguruza (ESP x14) v Margarita Gasparayan (RUS) Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) v Paula Badosa (ESP) Zarina Diyas (KAZ) v Tamara Zidansek (SLO) Bernarda Pera (USA) v Angelique Kerber (GER x23) Ons Jabeur (TUN x27) v Andrea Petkovic (GER) Mayo Hibi (JPN) v Anna Karolina Schmiedlova (SVK) Polona Hercog (SLO) v Caroline Garcia (FRA) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova v Naomi Osaka (JPN x3) Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x7) v Viktoria Kuzmova (SVK) Katie Boulter (GBR) v Daria Kasatkina (RUS) Alize Cornet (FRA) v Valeria Savinykh (RUS) Ann Li (USA)v Zhang Shuai (CHN x31) Alison Riske (USA x24) v Anastasia Potapova (RUS) Timea Babos (HUN) v Ysaline Bonaventure (BEL) Nina Stojanovic (SRB) v Irina-Camelia Begu (ROU) Laura Siegemund (GER) v Serena Williams (USA x10) Iga Swiatek (POL x15) v Arantxa Rus (NED) Yaroslava Shedova (KAZ) v Camila Giorgi (ITA) Fiona Ferro (FRA) v Katerina Siniakova (CZE) Vera Zvonareva (RUS) v Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17) Veronika Kudermetova (RUS x32) v Marta Kostyuk (UKR) Varvara Gracheva (RUS) v Anna Blinkova (RUS) Misaki Doi (JPN) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) Lizette Cabrera (AUS) v Simona Halep (ROM x2)

Australian Open 2021 Draw: Novak Djokovic faces Chardy as Sofia Kenin meets Inglis

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday.

The case, a worker at one of the Melbourne tournament's designated quarantine hotels, has caused yet more chaos before the year's first tennis Grand Slam, which has already been delayed three weeks over coronavirus problems.

But Tiley said the Australian Open would start as scheduled on Monday, and that there were no plans to cancel. Play was suspended at six warm-up tournaments in Melbourne on Thursday.

"We're absolutely confident the Australian Open will go ahead," Tiley told reporters. "The plan is to continue to play tomorrow as planned. If we have to go through this again, we'll go through this again.

"We have three-and-a-half weeks of tennis to play and we'll go in as scheduled."

The incident highlights the difficulty of holding large-scale, international sports events during the pandemic, as officials wrestle over how to safely hold this year's Tokyo Olympics. &nbsp;

Health officials insisted the risk to players and officials, who queued up for coronavirus tests on Thursday, was "low".

Victoria state Health Minister Martin Foley said the 520 people ordered to isolate and get tested were casual contacts, stressing "we are not as concerned about them".

"But out of an abundance of caution we want to ensure we leave no stone unturned in how we follow up and deal with anybody who may have had contact with this individual," he said.

Dedicated facilities were set up to ensure they all get tested quickly, with results often returned within 24 hours.

The Australian Open draw, which was scheduled to take place on Thursday, has been pushed back by a day.

<h2>- Formula One fiasco -</h2>

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka were reportedly among those affected by the mini-lockdown although the biggest names of the game, including Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, were not among those isolated as they spent their mandatory 14-day quarantine in Adelaide.

More than 1,000 players, coaches and officials flew into largely virus-free Australia last month, sparking debate over the whether the tournament should be held during a coronavirus pandemic.

Aggressive restrictions on incoming travel have meant Australia has been one of the world's most successful countries in dealing with the pandemic and one of the few still able to have spectators at sports events.

Daily crowds of between 25,000 and 30,000 are expected at the Australian Open.

Earlier, Victoria state opposition leader Michael O'Brien demanded a definitive call on the Australian Open within 48 hours.

"We don't want to see a situation as we did with the Grand Prix, where crowds were literally turning up, only to be turned away," the Melbourne Herald Sun quoted O'Brien as saying.

"I think people are entitled to know what's happening, and the government should be making their minds up in the next 24 to 48 hours."

Last year's Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne, the traditional season curtain-raiser, was cancelled just hours before the first practice session after a McLaren team member tested positive.

The late decision left fans fuming as they queued to get in.

While resentment has been bubbling on social media over whether the tournament should go ahead, opinions were mixed on the streets near Melbourne Park, the Australian Open venue.&nbsp;

"I'm just disappointed because the Australian Open seemed from the beginning about profits and not the safety of the public," said John Reilly, echoing some of the online sentiment.&nbsp;

But Melbourne resident Greg Rodgers said the two-week spectacle represented a "return to normalcy".

Victoria had gone 28 days without a locally acquired infection before the latest case, which prompted a tightening of restrictions around wearing masks.

State authorities are extremely wary of coronavirus cases after Melbourne spent four months in lockdown until late October.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he was "absolutely confident" the tournament will start next week despite a fresh coronavirus case that halted warm-up tournaments and forced hundreds of players and officials into isolation on Thursday. The case, a worker at one of the Melbourne tournament's designated quarantine hotels, has caused yet more chaos before the year's first tennis Grand Slam, which has already been delayed three weeks over coronavirus problems. But Tiley said the Australian Open would start as scheduled on Monday, and that there were no plans to cancel. Play was suspended at six warm-up tournaments in Melbourne on Thursday. "We're absolutely confident the Australian Open will go ahead," Tiley told reporters. "The plan is to continue to play tomorrow as planned. If we have to go through this again, we'll go through this again. "We have three-and-a-half weeks of tennis to play and we'll go in as scheduled." The incident highlights the difficulty of holding large-scale, international sports events during the pandemic, as officials wrestle over how to safely hold this year's Tokyo Olympics. Health officials insisted the risk to players and officials, who queued up for coronavirus tests on Thursday, was "low". Victoria state Health Minister Martin Foley said the 520 people ordered to isolate and get tested were casual contacts, stressing "we are not as concerned about them". "But out of an abundance of caution we want to ensure we leave no stone unturned in how we follow up and deal with anybody who may have had contact with this individual," he said. Dedicated facilities were set up to ensure they all get tested quickly, with results often returned within 24 hours. The Australian Open draw, which was scheduled to take place on Thursday, has been pushed back by a day. - Formula One fiasco - Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka were reportedly among those affected by the mini-lockdown although the biggest names of the game, including Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, were not among those isolated as they spent their mandatory 14-day quarantine in Adelaide. More than 1,000 players, coaches and officials flew into largely virus-free Australia last month, sparking debate over the whether the tournament should be held during a coronavirus pandemic. Aggressive restrictions on incoming travel have meant Australia has been one of the world's most successful countries in dealing with the pandemic and one of the few still able to have spectators at sports events. Daily crowds of between 25,000 and 30,000 are expected at the Australian Open. Earlier, Victoria state opposition leader Michael O'Brien demanded a definitive call on the Australian Open within 48 hours. "We don't want to see a situation as we did with the Grand Prix, where crowds were literally turning up, only to be turned away," the Melbourne Herald Sun quoted O'Brien as saying. "I think people are entitled to know what's happening, and the government should be making their minds up in the next 24 to 48 hours." Last year's Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne, the traditional season curtain-raiser, was cancelled just hours before the first practice session after a McLaren team member tested positive. The late decision left fans fuming as they queued to get in. While resentment has been bubbling on social media over whether the tournament should go ahead, opinions were mixed on the streets near Melbourne Park, the Australian Open venue. "I'm just disappointed because the Australian Open seemed from the beginning about profits and not the safety of the public," said John Reilly, echoing some of the online sentiment. But Melbourne resident Greg Rodgers said the two-week spectacle represented a "return to normalcy". Victoria had gone 28 days without a locally acquired infection before the latest case, which prompted a tightening of restrictions around wearing masks. State authorities are extremely wary of coronavirus cases after Melbourne spent four months in lockdown until late October.

Australian Open boss 'confident' event will go ahead despite Covid case

Australian ace Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday had a meltdown during an argument over a time violation while serving at the Murray River Open.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zverev-battles-to-atp-cup-win-over-shapovalov-italy-reach-semis-361020" hreflang="en">Zverev battles to ATP Cup win over Shapovalov, Italy reach semis</a>

The outspoken Australian, who was leading the match against Harry Bourchier (6-2, 5-5 at that point), walked up to umpire Nacho Forcadelle declaring: "I'm not playing, sorry mate."

Kyrgios, who went on to win the match, said that he was unhappy with the umpire's decision and claimed that he had already begun his service motion.

"It's like you're just doing it to be funny," he fumed at the umpire. "Do you think you're funny?"

He demanded the match supervisor be called, telling the chair official: "When will you guys realise it's not about you. You're just an extra for all of us."

Kyrgios' opponent Bourchier suggested the Aussie to get on with the game, where Nick said: "I want to talk about it now. I've lost enough money to these peanuts."

After winning the match 6-2, 7-6 (9/7), Kyrgios said, "I just like playing by the rules.

"And I just didn't want to play until I was sure I wasn't going to get fined because the ATP are pretty rough all the time, they fine me so much money." &nbsp;

Kyrgios is known for having such meltdowns during the match, for which the Australian has been fined several times. He is also playing his first tournament in a year after a wrist injury and then the coronavirus pandemic brought his 2020 season to a halt.

His win set up a clash next against Croat Borna Coric.

Australian ace Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday had a meltdown during an argument over a time violation while serving at the Murray River Open. ALSO READ: Zverev battles to ATP Cup win over Shapovalov, Italy reach semis The outspoken Australian, who was leading the match against Harry Bourchier (6-2, 5-5 at that point), walked up to umpire Nacho Forcadelle declaring: "I'm not playing, sorry mate.

Australian ace Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday had a meltdown during an argument over a time violation while serving at the Murray River Open. ALSO READ: Zverev battles to ATP Cup win over Shapovalov, Italy reach semis The outspoken Australian, who was leading the match against Harry Bourchier (6-2, 5-5 at that point), walked up to umpire Nacho Forcadelle declaring: "I'm not playing, sorry mate." Kyrgios, who went on to win the match, said that he was unhappy with the umpire's decision and claimed that he had already begun his service motion. "It's like you're just doing it to be funny," he fumed at the umpire. "Do you think you're funny?" He demanded the match supervisor be called, telling the chair official: "When will you guys realise it's not about you. You're just an extra for all of us." Kyrgios' opponent Bourchier suggested the Aussie to get on with the game, where Nick said: "I want to talk about it now. I've lost enough money to these peanuts." After winning the match 6-2, 7-6 (9/7), Kyrgios said, "I just like playing by the rules. "And I just didn't want to play until I was sure I wasn't going to get fined because the ATP are pretty rough all the time, they fine me so much money." Kyrgios is known for having such meltdowns during the match, for which the Australian has been fined several times. He is also playing his first tournament in a year after a wrist injury and then the coronavirus pandemic brought his 2020 season to a halt. His win set up a clash next against Croat Borna Coric.

'Do you think you're funny?': Nick Kyrgios has a meltdown at Murray River Open

French Open champion Iga Swiatek saw the 14-day quarantine period as a source of relief allowing her to escape the limelight that followed her Roland Garros triumph last year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-willing-to-spend-two-more-weeks-in-quarantine-to-play-in-the-olympics-360404" hreflang="en">Naomi Osaka willing to spend two more weeks in quarantine to play in the Olympics</a>

Swiatek became an overnight celebrity in Poland after winning the French Open. The 19-year-old was bombarded with sponsorship deals and a deluge of media requests.&nbsp;

The 14-day quarantine before the Australian Open comes as a sigh of relief for the Polish ace as she could practice and could go out by herself.&nbsp;

"During quarantine, I could practice and I could go out for five hours a day. I was one of the lucky ones," Swiatek said. "It was okay. I mean, after all the fuss that was in Poland, it was nice to be in another place, rest, focus on working.

"Obviously I sometimes needed to go out, to breathe some fresh air, but I couldn't do that. It's not a problem. I'm really glad that we have a chance to play, to do what we love."

The world number 54 came under limelight after she became the youngest woman to win the French Open since Monica Seles in 1992. Talking about her newly-found celebrity status, Swiatek said: "It's not bothering. It's nice." &nbsp;

"Right now I feel like there are more eyes on me," she said.

"I don't feel more pressure than before. I'm trying to keep my expectations low," she added.

(Inputs from Reuters)

French Open champion Iga Swiatek saw the 14-day quarantine period as a source of relief allowing her to escape the limelight that followed her Roland Garros triumph last year.

French Open champion Iga Swiatek saw the 14-day quarantine period as a source of relief allowing her to escape the limelight that followed her Roland Garros triumph last year. ALSO READ: Naomi Osaka willing to spend two more weeks in quarantine to play in the Olympics Swiatek became an overnight celebrity in Poland after winning the French Open. The 19-year-old was bombarded with sponsorship deals and a deluge of media requests. The 14-day quarantine before the Australian Open comes as a sigh of relief for the Polish ace as she could practice and could go out by herself. "During quarantine, I could practice and I could go out for five hours a day. I was one of the lucky ones," Swiatek said. "It was okay. I mean, after all the fuss that was in Poland, it was nice to be in another place, rest, focus on working. "Obviously I sometimes needed to go out, to breathe some fresh air, but I couldn't do that. It's not a problem. I'm really glad that we have a chance to play, to do what we love." The world number 54 came under limelight after she became the youngest woman to win the French Open since Monica Seles in 1992. Talking about her newly-found celebrity status, Swiatek said: "It's not bothering. It's nice." "Right now I feel like there are more eyes on me," she said. "I don't feel more pressure than before. I'm trying to keep my expectations low," she added. (Inputs from Reuters)

'I could practice and I could go out for five hours': Iga Swiatek on 14-day quarantine

India's tennis ace Rohan Bopanna's search for a new double's partner for the Australian Open has ended as the former doubles world number three will be playing with Ben McLachlan from Japan in the first Grand Slam of the year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-going-to-lie-i-didnt-miss-the-game-that-much-nick-kyrgios-360278" hreflang="en">'I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much': Nick Kyrgios</a>

Bopanna's partner, Joao Sousa, was unable to travel to Australia on time after testing COVID-19 positive. The Indian player is currently one of 72 players who have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14-day quarantine in Melbourne after fellow passengers on the flights that brought them to Australia tested positive for COVID-19.

"Playing with Ben McLachlan from Japan in Australian open," Bopanna told Reuters in a message on Saturday. McLachlan is a New Zealand-born player who represents Japan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-top-ranked-ashleigh-barty-thrilled-to-be-back-playing-again-360141" hreflang="en">Aus Open: Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty thrilled to be back playing again</a>

Rohan will be teaming up with China's Duan Yingying for the mixed doubles challenge.&nbsp;

For next week's ATP event in Melbourne, Denmark's Frederik Nielsen will pair up with Bopanna in the men's double category.

Denied training like most other players, Bopanna earlier told Reuters he had been relying on exercise bands and mats to stay fit.

(Inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

India's tennis ace Rohan Bopanna's search for a new double's partner for the Australian Open has ended as the former doubles world number three will be playing with Ben McLachlan from Japan in the first Grand Slam of the year.

India's tennis ace Rohan Bopanna's search for a new double's partner for the Australian Open has ended as the former doubles world number three will be playing with Ben McLachlan from Japan in the first Grand Slam of the year. ALSO READ: 'I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much': Nick Kyrgios Bopanna's partner, Joao Sousa, was unable to travel to Australia on time after testing COVID-19 positive. The Indian player is currently one of 72 players who have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14-day quarantine in Melbourne after fellow passengers on the flights that brought them to Australia tested positive for COVID-19. "Playing with Ben McLachlan from Japan in Australian open," Bopanna told Reuters in a message on Saturday. McLachlan is a New Zealand-born player who represents Japan. ALSO READ: Aus Open: Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty thrilled to be back playing again Rohan will be teaming up with China's Duan Yingying for the mixed doubles challenge. For next week's ATP event in Melbourne, Denmark's Frederik Nielsen will pair up with Bopanna in the men's double category. Denied training like most other players, Bopanna earlier told Reuters he had been relying on exercise bands and mats to stay fit. (Inputs from Reuters)

Rohan Bopanna finds new doubles' partner ahead of Australian Open

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios will be returning to action after staying away from the game for a year. The outspoken Aussie revealed that he did not miss the game and most of his fellow players during his time off the tennis.&nbsp;

Kyrgios is set to lock horns with Frenchman Alexandre Muller in the opening round of the Murray River Open on Monday in what would be his first competitive match in a year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-top-ranked-ashleigh-barty-thrilled-to-be-back-playing-again-360141" hreflang="en">Aus Open: Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty thrilled to be back playing again</a>

"I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much," Kyrgios said on Saturday.

"I'm a competitor. I compete with everything I do. I was playing computer games, that kind of stuff, getting my little competitive edge there. I didn't really miss the game at all."

Nick went on to say that he did not touch the tennis racquet for the initial four-five months of the year-long break as he wanted to get away from the game.&nbsp;

"I don't miss too many people on tour, to be honest, apart from all the Australian guys and a couple of good friends."

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Kyrgios was involved in plenty of controversies during the lockdown as he openly criticised world number one Novak Djokovic, after Serbian contracted the virus. He even got into a social media banter with Tennis legend Boris Becker, who tried defending Djokovic.&nbsp;

However, the Australian criticised the Serbian ace again, earlier this month, after Djokovic had asked the Australian Open organisers to ease quarantine restrictions for players.

Kyrgios said he was lucky to have spent a "crazy year" with his family and friends before resuming training with compatriot Jordan Thompson.

"I feel mentally completely refreshed, ready to go again."

"I feel like I am playing well and am ready to go. Everyone is really playing it by ear. Nobody really knows who is in form and who is not.

"I'm going to take it day by day and try to enjoy myself as much as I can."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios will be returning to action after staying away from the game for a year. The outspoken Aussie revealed that he did not miss the game and most of his fellow players during his time off the tennis.

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios will be returning to action after staying away from the game for a year. The outspoken Aussie revealed that he did not miss the game and most of his fellow players during his time off the tennis. Kyrgios is set to lock horns with Frenchman Alexandre Muller in the opening round of the Murray River Open on Monday in what would be his first competitive match in a year. ALSO READ: Aus Open: Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty thrilled to be back playing again "I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much," Kyrgios said on Saturday. "I'm a competitor. I compete with everything I do. I was playing computer games, that kind of stuff, getting my little competitive edge there. I didn't really miss the game at all." Nick went on to say that he did not touch the tennis racquet for the initial four-five months of the year-long break as he wanted to get away from the game. "I don't miss too many people on tour, to be honest, apart from all the Australian guys and a couple of good friends." ALSO READ: 'No Plan B': Japan's sponsors shelve ads as mood sours over Olympics Kyrgios was involved in plenty of controversies during the lockdown as he openly criticised world number one Novak Djokovic, after Serbian contracted the virus. He even got into a social media banter with Tennis legend Boris Becker, who tried defending Djokovic. However, the Australian criticised the Serbian ace again, earlier this month, after Djokovic had asked the Australian Open organisers to ease quarantine restrictions for players. Kyrgios said he was lucky to have spent a "crazy year" with his family and friends before resuming training with compatriot Jordan Thompson. "I feel mentally completely refreshed, ready to go again." "I feel like I am playing well and am ready to go. Everyone is really playing it by ear. Nobody really knows who is in form and who is not. "I'm going to take it day by day and try to enjoy myself as much as I can." (Inputs from Reuters)

'I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much': Nick Kyrgios

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner.

Djokovic was scheduled to kick off the "Day at the Drive" event in front of a crowd of 4,000 at Adelaide's Memorial Drive Tennis Club but pulled out minutes before he was due on court and was replaced by Krajinovic.

After his practice partner had won the first set, however, Djokovic bounded into the arena and proceeded to wrap up a 6-3 6-3 win over the Italian teenager.

"I'm sorry that I didn't step in on the court from the beginning," said Djokovic, who was celebrating his first day of freedom after 14 days in quarantine.

"I had to do some treatment with my physio, I wasn't feeling my best for the last two days and I didn't know how I was going to react."

Djokovic looked to be largely unhindered by the nasty-looking blister on the palm of his right hand.

"It's not easy but it's part of what we do, we're professional athletes, we learn over the years to play with the pain," he added.

"It's just a case of whether that pain is bearable or not. Obviously, coming off a hard training block and having the ATP Cup and Australian Open coming up you don't want to risk it too much."

Djokovic and Krajinovic will join forces again in the Serbia team defending the ATP Cup in Melbourne next week before the former launches his bid for a ninth Australian Open title on Feb. 8.

Serena Williams beat Naomi Osaka 6-2 2-6 (10-7) in a 'super breaker' in the second match with both players united in their excitement at playing in front of fans.

"We haven't played in front of a crowd in over a year so it's been a really long time," said Williams, who has been isolating with her 3-year-old daughter.

"We were so happy just to be here. Now it's worth it."

Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem and Simona Halep are all scheduled to play later matches after also coming out of quarantine. Women's world number one Ash Barty takes on Halep in the final match of the day.

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner.

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner. Djokovic was scheduled to kick off the "Day at the Drive" event in front of a crowd of 4,000 at Adelaide's Memorial Drive Tennis Club but pulled out minutes before he was due on court and was replaced by Krajinovic. After his practice partner had won the first set, however, Djokovic bounded into the arena and proceeded to wrap up a 6-3 6-3 win over the Italian teenager. "I'm sorry that I didn't step in on the court from the beginning," said Djokovic, who was celebrating his first day of freedom after 14 days in quarantine. "I had to do some treatment with my physio, I wasn't feeling my best for the last two days and I didn't know how I was going to react." Djokovic looked to be largely unhindered by the nasty-looking blister on the palm of his right hand. "It's not easy but it's part of what we do, we're professional athletes, we learn over the years to play with the pain," he added. "It's just a case of whether that pain is bearable or not. Obviously, coming off a hard training block and having the ATP Cup and Australian Open coming up you don't want to risk it too much." Djokovic and Krajinovic will join forces again in the Serbia team defending the ATP Cup in Melbourne next week before the former launches his bid for a ninth Australian Open title on Feb. 8. Serena Williams beat Naomi Osaka 6-2 2-6 (10-7) in a 'super breaker' in the second match with both players united in their excitement at playing in front of fans. "We haven't played in front of a crowd in over a year so it's been a really long time," said Williams, who has been isolating with her 3-year-old daughter. "We were so happy just to be here. Now it's worth it." Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem and Simona Halep are all scheduled to play later matches after also coming out of quarantine. Women's world number one Ash Barty takes on Halep in the final match of the day.

Out then in, Djokovic plays a set in Adelaide exhibition

Even a 14-day quarantine before the Australian Open could not dampen Belarusian ace Victoria Azarenka's excitement for the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/out-then-in-djokovic-plays-a-set-in-adelaide-exhibition-360028" hreflang="en">Out then in, Djokovic plays a set in Adelaide exhibition</a>

Former world number one, who won both her Grand Slams in Australia (2012, 2013), earned her first title since 2016 at the Western &amp; Southern Open in August when Naomi Osaka withdrew from the final with injury. Azarenka was, however, beaten by Osaka in the US Open finals last year and she also reached the Ostrava Open final in October, losing to Aryna Sabalenka.

The 31-year-old talked about her form in a recent podcast she launched on mental health this week where she said: "It wasn't necessarily surprising for me, but I was so grateful that all of the work I'd been doing was paying off."

"Now, it's like ... I want to do this, do that, and let me see how I can get there. The excitement level is rising and rising," she told Sky Sports.

Azarenka has her share of lows in her prolific career as she was down with foot injury in 2014 then had a year-long maternity break in 2016-17. Until 2018, the Belarusian player had to fight for the custody of her 10-year-old son Leo after splitting with her partner.

However, the player bounced back in style coming into the latter stages of the tournaments. "I can say hands down that I've never enjoyed tennis as much as I am now," she said. "I've never enjoyed my life as much as I have now. I feel like that kid who was a 10-year-old and dreamt about being on the big stages.

"That's priceless for me."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Even a 14-day quarantine before the Australian Open could not dampen Belarusian ace Victoria Azarenka's excitement for the game. ALSO READ: Out then in, Djokovic plays a set in Adelaide exhibition Former world number one, who won both her Grand Slams in Australia (2012, 2013), earned her first title since 2016 at the Western & Southern Open in August when Naomi Osaka withdrew from the final with injury.

Even a 14-day quarantine before the Australian Open could not dampen Belarusian ace Victoria Azarenka's excitement for the game. ALSO READ: Out then in, Djokovic plays a set in Adelaide exhibition Former world number one, who won both her Grand Slams in Australia (2012, 2013), earned her first title since 2016 at the Western & Southern Open in August when Naomi Osaka withdrew from the final with injury. Azarenka was, however, beaten by Osaka in the US Open finals last year and she also reached the Ostrava Open final in October, losing to Aryna Sabalenka. The 31-year-old talked about her form in a recent podcast she launched on mental health this week where she said: "It wasn't necessarily surprising for me, but I was so grateful that all of the work I'd been doing was paying off." "Now, it's like ... I want to do this, do that, and let me see how I can get there. The excitement level is rising and rising," she told Sky Sports. Azarenka has her share of lows in her prolific career as she was down with foot injury in 2014 then had a year-long maternity break in 2016-17. Until 2018, the Belarusian player had to fight for the custody of her 10-year-old son Leo after splitting with her partner. However, the player bounced back in style coming into the latter stages of the tournaments. "I can say hands down that I've never enjoyed tennis as much as I am now," she said. "I've never enjoyed my life as much as I have now. I feel like that kid who was a 10-year-old and dreamt about being on the big stages. "That's priceless for me." (Inputs from Reuters)

'The excitement level is rising': Victoria Azarenka on her form ahead of Australian Open

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others".&nbsp;

The Serbian ace gave a list of suggestions to Tennis Australia last week on behalf of 72 players, who were unable to leave their hotel rooms in Melbourne after COVID-19 cases were detected on their planes to Australia. Reportedly, the list included shifting players into private houses with tennis courts and providing them with better meals.&nbsp;

The requests by Djokovic provoked a backlash as Australian media portrayed players as selfish while fellow tennis star Nick Kyrgios termed the Serb as a "tool".&nbsp;

Later, Djokovic published and open later to&nbsp;say his "good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued".&nbsp;

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"We all try to help each other," Spanish great Nadal told ESPN Tuesday from Adelaide, where he and Djokovic are quarantining ahead of the year's opening Grand Slam in Melbourne on February 8.&nbsp;

"Some need to make public everything they do to help others," he added, in remarks widely seen as referring to Djokovic. "Others... do it in a more private way without having to publish or advertise everything we're doing."&nbsp;

While most of the players are still undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in Melbourne, Nadal, Djokovic and a few other superstars including Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka were taken to Adelaide where they are due to play an exhibition on Friday.&nbsp;

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While it sparked takes on preferential&nbsp;treatment, Nadal admitted it had been smoother sailing.&nbsp;

"In Adelaide, conditions have been better than most players in Melbourne," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But there are players in Melbourne who have larger rooms where they can develop physical activities, others have smaller rooms and can't have contact with their coach and their physical trainer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Where's the line? It's an ethical issue. Everyone has their own opinion and they are all respectable."&nbsp;

Australian Open is set to commence from February 8.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others".

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others". The Serbian ace gave a list of suggestions to Tennis Australia last week on behalf of 72 players, who were unable to leave their hotel rooms in Melbourne after COVID-19 cases were detected on their planes to Australia. Reportedly, the list included shifting players into private houses with tennis courts and providing them with better meals. The requests by Djokovic provoked a backlash as Australian media portrayed players as selfish while fellow tennis star Nick Kyrgios termed the Serb as a "tool". Later, Djokovic published and open later to say his "good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued". ÁLSO READ: Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out "We all try to help each other," Spanish great Nadal told ESPN Tuesday from Adelaide, where he and Djokovic are quarantining ahead of the year's opening Grand Slam in Melbourne on February 8. "Some need to make public everything they do to help others," he added, in remarks widely seen as referring to Djokovic. "Others... do it in a more private way without having to publish or advertise everything we're doing." While most of the players are still undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in Melbourne, Nadal, Djokovic and a few other superstars including Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka were taken to Adelaide where they are due to play an exhibition on Friday. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics While it sparked takes on preferential treatment, Nadal admitted it had been smoother sailing. "In Adelaide, conditions have been better than most players in Melbourne," he said. "But there are players in Melbourne who have larger rooms where they can develop physical activities, others have smaller rooms and can't have contact with their coach and their physical trainer. "Where's the line? It's an ethical issue. Everyone has their own opinion and they are all respectable." Australian Open is set to commence from February 8.

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal takes sly dig at Novak Djokovic over quarantine complaints

One case of COVID-19 among those in quarantine ahead of the Australian Open has been reclassified, local health officials said on Sunday, leaving nine active cases in the group of players and support staff isolating in Melbourne hotels. 
 
Health officials previously said they were investigating some positive tests for evidence of "viral shedding", where people who have had the virus continue to shed non-infectious remnants after they have recovered. 
 
COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria also said in a statement that the one case of the virus acquired overseas reported on Sunday was not connected to the tennis Grand Slam. 
 
Most of the 970 people in the Australian Open quarantine hotels have entered their second week of the 14-day isolation period with the first arrivals due to be freed from lockdown on Friday. 
 
While most have been allowed out to train for five hours a day, around 72 have been confined to their rooms after the positive cases on the charter flights that brought them to Australia. 
 
Four players were among the cases initially reported as being associated with the tennis but only Spain`s Paula Badosa has confirmed that she tested positive. 
 
Badosa`s quarantine period restarted when the test result was confirmed, meaning the 23-year-old will have almost no time to prepare for the Feb. 8 start of the Australian Open. 
 
There was bad news for another player in quarantine early on Sunday when the International Tennis Federation denied Dayana Yastremska`s application to have her provisional suspension for a doping violation set aside. 
 
The Ukrainian world number 29, who denied using performance-enhancing substances when her positive test for an anabolic agent was revealed in January, has the right to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. 
 
Three of the nine cases of COVID-19 linked to the Australian Open were on Saturday revealed to be for the more transmissible coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom. 
 
According to local media, that news scuppered plans to allow the players to associate in groups of up to four, rather that the current two. 
 
Tournament director Craig Tiley told players in a letter on Saturday evening that the environment was not conducive to an easing of restrictions, the Sunday Telegraph newspaper reported. 
 
"After consultation with many of you, we have postponed the planned expansion of the cohorts," Tiley wrote. 
 
"Having more people in your cohort is no extra risk to the local community, because you are all in quarantine. But we want to minimise the risk to each of you and that`s why we have delayed the expansion and will continue to assess daily." 
 
A rash of complaints from frustrated players on social media in the first few days of lockdown has calmed after some of their fellow competitors urged them to show respect for the efforts the people of Melbourne had made to control the virus. 
 
The state of Victoria, which contains Australia`s second-largest city, endured one of the world`s strictest and longest lockdowns last year. 
 
On Sunday the state recorded an 18th straight day with no local transmissions, while Australia as a whole has not reported a case in the community for nine of the last 10 days. 
&nbsp;

One case of COVID-19 among those in quarantine ahead of the Australian Open has been reclassified, local health officials said on Sunday, leaving nine active cases in the group of players and support staff isolating in Melbourne hotels.

One case of COVID-19 among those in quarantine ahead of the Australian Open has been reclassified, local health officials said on Sunday, leaving nine active cases in the group of players and support staff isolating in Melbourne hotels. Health officials previously said they were investigating some positive tests for evidence of "viral shedding", where people who have had the virus continue to shed non-infectious remnants after they have recovered. COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria also said in a statement that the one case of the virus acquired overseas reported on Sunday was not connected to the tennis Grand Slam. Most of the 970 people in the Australian Open quarantine hotels have entered their second week of the 14-day isolation period with the first arrivals due to be freed from lockdown on Friday. While most have been allowed out to train for five hours a day, around 72 have been confined to their rooms after the positive cases on the charter flights that brought them to Australia. Four players were among the cases initially reported as being associated with the tennis but only Spain`s Paula Badosa has confirmed that she tested positive. Badosa`s quarantine period restarted when the test result was confirmed, meaning the 23-year-old will have almost no time to prepare for the Feb. 8 start of the Australian Open. There was bad news for another player in quarantine early on Sunday when the International Tennis Federation denied Dayana Yastremska`s application to have her provisional suspension for a doping violation set aside. The Ukrainian world number 29, who denied using performance-enhancing substances when her positive test for an anabolic agent was revealed in January, has the right to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Three of the nine cases of COVID-19 linked to the Australian Open were on Saturday revealed to be for the more transmissible coronavirus variant first detected in the United Kingdom. According to local media, that news scuppered plans to allow the players to associate in groups of up to four, rather that the current two. Tournament director Craig Tiley told players in a letter on Saturday evening that the environment was not conducive to an easing of restrictions, the Sunday Telegraph newspaper reported. "After consultation with many of you, we have postponed the planned expansion of the cohorts," Tiley wrote. "Having more people in your cohort is no extra risk to the local community, because you are all in quarantine. But we want to minimise the risk to each of you and that`s why we have delayed the expansion and will continue to assess daily." A rash of complaints from frustrated players on social media in the first few days of lockdown has calmed after some of their fellow competitors urged them to show respect for the efforts the people of Melbourne had made to control the virus. The state of Victoria, which contains Australia`s second-largest city, endured one of the world`s strictest and longest lockdowns last year. On Sunday the state recorded an 18th straight day with no local transmissions, while Australia as a whole has not reported a case in the community for nine of the last 10 days.

Nine active cases of COVID-19 in Australian Open quarantine: Officials

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as&nbsp;the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;them&nbsp;to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to&nbsp;"private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians.&nbsp;

However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic.&nbsp;

"My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement.&nbsp;

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"This couldn't be farther from the truth.&nbsp;

"... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles."&nbsp;

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Tennis coach Daniel&nbsp;Vallverdy&nbsp;told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday.&nbsp;

Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a&nbsp;"selfish political move" while&nbsp;Aussie tennis star&nbsp;Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool".&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order,"&nbsp;the Serbian ace&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

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"Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added.&nbsp;

"I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy.&nbsp;

"None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”. A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights carrying them to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus. Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to "private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians. However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic. "My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful," Djokovic who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement. ALSO READ: Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow "This couldn't be farther from the truth. "... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles." pic.twitter.com/YbGDYWL7Yf — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 20, 2021 × Tennis coach Daniel Vallverdy told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday. Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a "selfish political move" while Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool". "I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order," the Serbian ace said. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 "Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed." Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open organisers to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic. "Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added. "I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy. "None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."

Novak Djokovic lashes out at critics over Australian Open quarantine stance

Two Australian Open tennis players have tested positive for the coronavirus, health officials said on Tuesday, in a new blow for the tournament which is facing a backlash from a wary public.

The unnamed players were among three new cases -- a woman in her 20s and two men in their 30s -- taking the tournament's cluster to seven, Victoria state's health authority said.

More than 1,000 players and staff are in quarantine after arriving last week in Australia, which is largely coronavirus-free. Three of the 17 charter flights had positive cases on board.

The delayed Grand Slam has proved an enormous undertaking and is provoking disquiet among Australians, especially in host city Melbourne which emerged from a four-month lockdown in October.

Player complaints about quarantine have raised hackles further and Australia's Nick Kyrgios led criticism of world number one Novak Djokovic for requesting improved conditions.

"Djokovic is a tool," tweeted Kyrgios, the world number 47.

World number 13 Roberto Bautista Agut also told a TV station that quarantine was like prison "with wifi", calling the arrangements a "complete disaster".

However, tournament organisers insisted most players accepted their isolation without complaint.

"Actually embarrassed to be a tennis player these days," tweeted Australia's Arina Rodionova, while two-time Australian Open winner Viktoria Azarenka asked her fellow competitors for "cooperation, understanding and empathy for the local community".

At least 72 players have been barred from leaving their rooms for two weeks after cases were detected on their charter flights.

The others can train for up to five hours a day under strictly controlled conditions. A series of warm-up events will be held after the quarantine period, before the Australian Open starts on February 8.

Djokovic, the reigning Australian Open champion, is among a select group of stars -- including Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal -- flown into Adelaide to enjoy better facilities such as hotel rooms with balconies, unlike the majority quarantining in Melbourne.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion sent a letter to Tennis Australia that reportedly called for players to be moved into private homes with tennis courts and get better meals, among other requests.&nbsp;

Australian media portrayed the letter as petulant and selfish, while showing images of Djokovic not wearing a mask in a players' minibus, which would be required in most taxis and ride-shares in Australia.

<h2>- 'Ridiculous scenes' -</h2>

However, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley defended Djokovic, saying his letter merely contained "suggestions and ideas", not demands.

Tiley said Australia's strict quarantine rules were initially a "shock" to some players but most had told him during a conference call that they accepted the restrictions and wanted to apologise for the comments of a disgruntled few.

"The majority of the players have been absolutely fantastic and this is a playing group that's a little bit upset with what some others have said because it holds them in a bad light in the community," Tiley told reporters.

He also ruled out cutting the maximum duration of men's matches from five sets to three to help players whose preparation had been compromised by quarantine lockdown.

"We haven't entertained those comments or that position," he said.

Meanwhile Kyrgios also took aim at fellow Australian player Bernard Tomic's girlfriend, Vanessa Sierra, after she complained in an online video about cold food and having to wash her own hair in quarantine.

"I don't mind Bernie but his Mrs obviously has no perspective, ridiculous scenes," Kyrgios tweeted.

Djokovic's actions around the tournament are being closely watched, in part due to his seeming nonchalance about the virus in the past.&nbsp;

Last year, he organised a series of exhibition events in the Balkans at which social distancing was minimal.

He and several other players later tested positive for the virus, as well as his wife Jelena.

Two Australian Open tennis players have tested positive for the coronavirus, health officials said on Tuesday, in a new blow for the tournament which is facing a backlash from a wary public.

Two Australian Open tennis players have tested positive for the coronavirus, health officials said on Tuesday, in a new blow for the tournament which is facing a backlash from a wary public. The unnamed players were among three new cases -- a woman in her 20s and two men in their 30s -- taking the tournament's cluster to seven, Victoria state's health authority said. More than 1,000 players and staff are in quarantine after arriving last week in Australia, which is largely coronavirus-free. Three of the 17 charter flights had positive cases on board. The delayed Grand Slam has proved an enormous undertaking and is provoking disquiet among Australians, especially in host city Melbourne which emerged from a four-month lockdown in October. Player complaints about quarantine have raised hackles further and Australia's Nick Kyrgios led criticism of world number one Novak Djokovic for requesting improved conditions. "Djokovic is a tool," tweeted Kyrgios, the world number 47. World number 13 Roberto Bautista Agut also told a TV station that quarantine was like prison "with wifi", calling the arrangements a "complete disaster". However, tournament organisers insisted most players accepted their isolation without complaint. "Actually embarrassed to be a tennis player these days," tweeted Australia's Arina Rodionova, while two-time Australian Open winner Viktoria Azarenka asked her fellow competitors for "cooperation, understanding and empathy for the local community". At least 72 players have been barred from leaving their rooms for two weeks after cases were detected on their charter flights. The others can train for up to five hours a day under strictly controlled conditions. A series of warm-up events will be held after the quarantine period, before the Australian Open starts on February 8. Djokovic, the reigning Australian Open champion, is among a select group of stars -- including Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal -- flown into Adelaide to enjoy better facilities such as hotel rooms with balconies, unlike the majority quarantining in Melbourne. The 17-time Grand Slam champion sent a letter to Tennis Australia that reportedly called for players to be moved into private homes with tennis courts and get better meals, among other requests. Australian media portrayed the letter as petulant and selfish, while showing images of Djokovic not wearing a mask in a players' minibus, which would be required in most taxis and ride-shares in Australia. - 'Ridiculous scenes' - However, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley defended Djokovic, saying his letter merely contained "suggestions and ideas", not demands. Tiley said Australia's strict quarantine rules were initially a "shock" to some players but most had told him during a conference call that they accepted the restrictions and wanted to apologise for the comments of a disgruntled few. "The majority of the players have been absolutely fantastic and this is a playing group that's a little bit upset with what some others have said because it holds them in a bad light in the community," Tiley told reporters. He also ruled out cutting the maximum duration of men's matches from five sets to three to help players whose preparation had been compromised by quarantine lockdown. "We haven't entertained those comments or that position," he said. Meanwhile Kyrgios also took aim at fellow Australian player Bernard Tomic's girlfriend, Vanessa Sierra, after she complained in an online video about cold food and having to wash her own hair in quarantine. "I don't mind Bernie but his Mrs obviously has no perspective, ridiculous scenes," Kyrgios tweeted. Djokovic's actions around the tournament are being closely watched, in part due to his seeming nonchalance about the virus in the past. Last year, he organised a series of exhibition events in the Balkans at which social distancing was minimal. He and several other players later tested positive for the virus, as well as his wife Jelena.

Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow

Australian Open officials on Monday confirmed that four more participants, including an athlete, tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Melbourne.&nbsp;

"All four are associated with the tennis, and they're all tucked away safely in hotel quarantine," Victoria state premier Daniel Andrews told reporters of the new cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-to-plough-ahead-despite-players-quarantine-anger-357319" hreflang="en">Australian Open to plough ahead despite players' quarantine anger</a>

According to Health Authorities in Victoria state, nine infections have been reported among passengers who arrived on charter flights for the February 8-21 Australian Open and officials said more cases may come to light as testing continues.&nbsp;

Passengers, including 70 players, travelling on three charter flights arranged by Australian Open have been sent into hard quarantine. The athletes are unable to train for 14 days ahead of the year's first Grand Slam.

Others are allowed five hours outside their hotel rooms each day for preparation, in line with arrangements made by organisers Tennis Australia with health authorities.

Players have come up with unique ways to pass time and stay fit in isolation with some hitting balls against a mattress and running sprints in corridors.

"I think the people who tested positive thus far were probably exposed before they got on the flights," Victoria Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said.

"But it will be the test results in coming days that will give us a picture of whether anyone's had infection transmitted to them on a flight."

The growing infection count has sparked calls from pundits to cancel the Grand Slam.

"It's time to be selfish, time for Victoria to put ourselves first," 3AW radio broadcaster Neil Mitchell said.

"Call off the Australian Open. It's not worth the risk."

Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley said on Sunday the tournament would start as scheduled.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Australian Open officials on Monday confirmed that four more participants, including an athlete, tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Melbourne. "All four are associated with the tennis, and they're all tucked away safely in hotel quarantine," Victoria state premier Daniel Andrews told reporters of the new cases.

Australian Open officials on Monday confirmed that four more participants, including an athlete, tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving in Melbourne. "All four are associated with the tennis, and they're all tucked away safely in hotel quarantine," Victoria state premier Daniel Andrews told reporters of the new cases. Also read: Australian Open to plough ahead despite players' quarantine anger According to Health Authorities in Victoria state, nine infections have been reported among passengers who arrived on charter flights for the February 8-21 Australian Open and officials said more cases may come to light as testing continues. Passengers, including 70 players, travelling on three charter flights arranged by Australian Open have been sent into hard quarantine. The athletes are unable to train for 14 days ahead of the year's first Grand Slam. Others are allowed five hours outside their hotel rooms each day for preparation, in line with arrangements made by organisers Tennis Australia with health authorities. Players have come up with unique ways to pass time and stay fit in isolation with some hitting balls against a mattress and running sprints in corridors. "I think the people who tested positive thus far were probably exposed before they got on the flights," Victoria Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said. "But it will be the test results in coming days that will give us a picture of whether anyone's had infection transmitted to them on a flight." The growing infection count has sparked calls from pundits to cancel the Grand Slam. "It's time to be selfish, time for Victoria to put ourselves first," 3AW radio broadcaster Neil Mitchell said. "Call off the Australian Open. It's not worth the risk." Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley said on Sunday the tournament would start as scheduled. (Inputs from Reuters)

Four more participants in Australian Open test positive for COVID-19

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has confirmed the year's first Grand Slam will go ahead from Feb. 8 despite anger from players forced into hard quarantine in Melbourne due to positive COVID-19 cases on their charter planes.

Forty-seven players and their entourages have to isolate for two weeks in their hotel rooms in Melbourne and are no longer able to leave them to train after infections were reported on two chartered flights carrying them to Melbourne.

Other players who arrived in different planes are also undertaking a mandatory 14-day quarantine but are permitted to leave their hotels for five hours a day to train, raising questions about the integrity of the Grand Slam.

Tiley said the tournament would start as scheduled but governing body Tennis Australia would look at altering the leadup tournaments to help the affected players.

"We are reviewing the schedule leading in to see what we can do to assist these players," Tiley told the Nine Network on Sunday.

"The Australian Open is going ahead and we will continue to do the best we possibly can do to ensure those players have the best opportunity."

Quarantine authorities said they had recorded a fourth COVID-19 infection among the passengers on the two charter flights carrying players to Melbourne.

A broadcaster on the flight from Los Angeles had tested positive, adding to an aircrew member and a tennis coach on the same plane who were reported on Saturday.

The other case was Sylvain Bruneau, the coach of the women's 2019 U.S. Open champion - Canada's Bianca Andreescu.

Bruneau was a passenger on a charter flight carrying 23 players from Abu Dhabi.

Some of the affected players complained about their detention, saying they had not been adequately advised.

Romanian Sorana Cirstea, the women's world number 71, said on social media: "If they would have told us this rule before, I would not play in Australia. I would have stayed home.

"They told us we would fly at 20% capacity, in sections, and we would be a close contact only if my team or cohort tests positive."

Swiss player Belinda Bencic said she and the other 46 players were at a disadvantage.

"We are not complaining (about being) in quarantine. We are complaining because of unequal practice/playing conditions before quite important tournaments," she said on social media.

COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria boss Emma Cassar said authorities had provided consistent advice.

"The rules for close contacts haven't changed," she told reporters in Melbourne on Sunday.

"The program is set up to keep people safe."

Cassar also warned players to stick to quarantine rules and threatened them with A$20,000 ($15,400) fines and having them moved to an even stricter facility after two players made low-level breaches.

She said two players had opened their hotel room doors to talk to others, including one who was congratulating himself for arranging food by Uber Eats.

"So they've been warned and Victoria police will continue to follow up," she added.

The coach Bruneau said he had tested negative within 72 hours of his flight and felt "perfectly fine" when he boarded the plane.

"I am extremely saddened and sorry for the consequences now on everyone's shoulders sharing my flight," Bruneau said in a statement issued by Tennis Canada.

"The rest of my team is negative and I sincerely hope that any further disruption is kept to a minimum."

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has confirmed the year's first Grand Slam will go ahead from Feb. 8 despite anger from players forced into hard quarantine in Melbourne due to positive COVID-19 cases on their charter planes.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has confirmed the year's first Grand Slam will go ahead from Feb. 8 despite anger from players forced into hard quarantine in Melbourne due to positive COVID-19 cases on their charter planes. Forty-seven players and their entourages have to isolate for two weeks in their hotel rooms in Melbourne and are no longer able to leave them to train after infections were reported on two chartered flights carrying them to Melbourne. Other players who arrived in different planes are also undertaking a mandatory 14-day quarantine but are permitted to leave their hotels for five hours a day to train, raising questions about the integrity of the Grand Slam. Tiley said the tournament would start as scheduled but governing body Tennis Australia would look at altering the leadup tournaments to help the affected players. "We are reviewing the schedule leading in to see what we can do to assist these players," Tiley told the Nine Network on Sunday. "The Australian Open is going ahead and we will continue to do the best we possibly can do to ensure those players have the best opportunity." Quarantine authorities said they had recorded a fourth COVID-19 infection among the passengers on the two charter flights carrying players to Melbourne. A broadcaster on the flight from Los Angeles had tested positive, adding to an aircrew member and a tennis coach on the same plane who were reported on Saturday. The other case was Sylvain Bruneau, the coach of the women's 2019 U.S. Open champion - Canada's Bianca Andreescu. Bruneau was a passenger on a charter flight carrying 23 players from Abu Dhabi. Some of the affected players complained about their detention, saying they had not been adequately advised. Romanian Sorana Cirstea, the women's world number 71, said on social media: "If they would have told us this rule before, I would not play in Australia. I would have stayed home. "They told us we would fly at 20% capacity, in sections, and we would be a close contact only if my team or cohort tests positive." Swiss player Belinda Bencic said she and the other 46 players were at a disadvantage. "We are not complaining (about being) in quarantine. We are complaining because of unequal practice/playing conditions before quite important tournaments," she said on social media. COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria boss Emma Cassar said authorities had provided consistent advice. "The rules for close contacts haven't changed," she told reporters in Melbourne on Sunday. "The program is set up to keep people safe." Cassar also warned players to stick to quarantine rules and threatened them with A$20,000 ($15,400) fines and having them moved to an even stricter facility after two players made low-level breaches. She said two players had opened their hotel room doors to talk to others, including one who was congratulating himself for arranging food by Uber Eats. "So they've been warned and Victoria police will continue to follow up," she added. The coach Bruneau said he had tested negative within 72 hours of his flight and felt "perfectly fine" when he boarded the plane. "I am extremely saddened and sorry for the consequences now on everyone's shoulders sharing my flight," Bruneau said in a statement issued by Tennis Canada. "The rest of my team is negative and I sincerely hope that any further disruption is kept to a minimum."

Australian Open to plough ahead despite players' quarantine anger

Health chiefs vowed Friday there will be no preferential treatment for five-time finalist Andy Murray, saying he must return a negative Covid-19 test if he wants to play the Australian Open.

The former world number one was due to travel to Melbourne on one of a series of charter flights laid on by tournament organisers, but revealed on Thursday he had tested positive for the virus.

He is isolating at home in London, casting major doubt over whether he will be able to play the opening Grand Slam of the year.

Britain's Press Association news agency said the three-time major winner, apparently in good health, was hoping to arrive in Australia at a later date.

But Victorian state health minister Martin Foley said the Scotsman won't be getting any special favours.

"In regards to Mr. Murray, we've been clear from the start that anyone who tests positive is not able to be part of the programme coming into Melbourne and Australia," he told reporters.

"Mr. Murray, and the other 1,240 people as part of the program, need to demonstrate that if they're coming to Melbourne they have returned a negative test.

"So should Mr. Murray arrive, and I have no indication that he will, he will be subject to those same rigorous arrangements as everyone else. Should he test positive prior to his attempts to come to Australia, he will be refused."

Murray was handed a wildcard to the Open, hoping to make his first appearance in Melbourne since 2019, when he revealed the extent of a right hip problem and raised the possibility of imminent retirement.

More than 1,200 players and support staff have begun arriving for 14 days' quarantine ahead of the delayed tournament, which is due to start on February 8.

They are being greeted by biosecurity officials wearing personal protective equipment, before being whisked away to hotel quarantine.

Players are only allowed into the country with proof of a negative test prior to departure, or with approval as a recovered case at the Australian government's discretion.

That rule applied to American world number 50 Tennys Sandgren, who was permitted onto a flight from Los Angeles Thursday despite tweeting that he tested positive this week.

It was his second positive result, having been diagnosed with Covid-19 in November.

"Mr. Sandgren is not infectious. His infection is historical," said Foley. "So, he's met the rigorous health criteria that has been set."

The tournament has already lost some key players, with Roger Federer out injured and world number 25 John Isner opting not to travel due to the coronavirus restrictions.

In another blow, American world number 16 Madison Keys said she too had tested positive and would not play.

Meanwhile, world number three Dominic Thiem arrived without coach Nicolas Massu, who has also tested positive, and Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal is missing his coach Carlos Moya who has decided not to make the trip.

Health chiefs vowed Friday there will be no preferential treatment for five-time finalist Andy Murray, saying he must return a negative Covid-19 test if he wants to play the Australian Open.

Health chiefs vowed Friday there will be no preferential treatment for five-time finalist Andy Murray, saying he must return a negative Covid-19 test if he wants to play the Australian Open. The former world number one was due to travel to Melbourne on one of a series of charter flights laid on by tournament organisers, but revealed on Thursday he had tested positive for the virus. He is isolating at home in London, casting major doubt over whether he will be able to play the opening Grand Slam of the year. Britain's Press Association news agency said the three-time major winner, apparently in good health, was hoping to arrive in Australia at a later date. But Victorian state health minister Martin Foley said the Scotsman won't be getting any special favours. "In regards to Mr. Murray, we've been clear from the start that anyone who tests positive is not able to be part of the programme coming into Melbourne and Australia," he told reporters. "Mr. Murray, and the other 1,240 people as part of the program, need to demonstrate that if they're coming to Melbourne they have returned a negative test. "So should Mr. Murray arrive, and I have no indication that he will, he will be subject to those same rigorous arrangements as everyone else. Should he test positive prior to his attempts to come to Australia, he will be refused." Murray was handed a wildcard to the Open, hoping to make his first appearance in Melbourne since 2019, when he revealed the extent of a right hip problem and raised the possibility of imminent retirement. More than 1,200 players and support staff have begun arriving for 14 days' quarantine ahead of the delayed tournament, which is due to start on February 8. They are being greeted by biosecurity officials wearing personal protective equipment, before being whisked away to hotel quarantine. Players are only allowed into the country with proof of a negative test prior to departure, or with approval as a recovered case at the Australian government's discretion. That rule applied to American world number 50 Tennys Sandgren, who was permitted onto a flight from Los Angeles Thursday despite tweeting that he tested positive this week. It was his second positive result, having been diagnosed with Covid-19 in November. "Mr. Sandgren is not infectious. His infection is historical," said Foley. "So, he's met the rigorous health criteria that has been set." The tournament has already lost some key players, with Roger Federer out injured and world number 25 John Isner opting not to travel due to the coronavirus restrictions. In another blow, American world number 16 Madison Keys said she too had tested positive and would not play. Meanwhile, world number three Dominic Thiem arrived without coach Nicolas Massu, who has also tested positive, and Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal is missing his coach Carlos Moya who has decided not to make the trip.

No special favours for virus-hit Andy Murray, Aussie health chiefs say

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch.

The calendar's first Grand Slam normally starts in the third week of January but planning for this year's tournament has been a logistical nightmare for beleaguered organisers.&nbsp;

Tennis Australia initially wanted players arriving in Melbourne by mid-December.

But restrictions on international arrivals to the state of Victoria pushed back the tournament start date to February 8, with a series of WTA and ATP events being played at Melbourne the week before to ensure players are up to speed.

Melbourne was the epicentre of Australia's largest second wave outbreak of coronavirus, which prompted strict lockdown measures for four months.&nbsp;

This grim backdrop fuelled tense negotiations between government officials, organisers and players to iron out an agreeable health security protocol for the Australian Open.

The sticking point had been over allowing players to practise during the compulsory 14-day quarantine period but eventually authorities gave the green light and granted daily five-hour blocks for training and treatment.

Players, however, face stricter measures compared to last year's US and French Opens held in cities stricken by the virus and will be required to spend 19 hours daily during quarantine confined to their hotel rooms.

Defending Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin admitted it was "not the most ideal situation". "It is what it is. The rules are quite harsh, but it's for&nbsp;everyone," she said.

There is also the threat of sanctions, including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if the rules are broken.

Ukrainian world number five Elina Svitolina hired a mental coach in an effort to cope with the stress and uncertainty.

"I think during the difficult time right now, mentally it's very important to stay strong, to stay fresh," she said.

<h2>- 'Just crazy' -</h2>

Six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer's decision to withdraw -- breaking his record streak of 21 straight singles appearances in Melbourne -- affects the pulling power of the tournament, which was left reeling after suggestions he skipped because of the quarantine rules.

The 39-year-old had two rounds of knee surgery last year and has not played since his semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 12 months ago.

"The problem is that Mirka (Federer's wife) and their children couldn't leave the room," Tennis Australia's head of player liaisons Andre Sa told Brazilian media.&nbsp;

"They would have to stay 14 days in the room. The exception is only for players."

Just days ahead of players arriving organisers were forced into a scramble to find more accommodation after a luxury Melbourne hotel due to host them pulled out.

In a late twist, it was revealed Saturday that a contingent of up to 50 -– including top stars Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka -– would quarantine instead in Adelaide with an exhibition tournament held there prior to the Australian Open.

It led to world number 72 Jeremy Chardy accusing organisers of preferential treatment.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley&nbsp;admitted there would be "some benefits" for players amid the smaller cohort in Adelaide but said "the conditions of training will be the same".

Tiley said the toll on organisers had been immense with a 1,270-strong contingent on 80 charter flights, bankrolled by Tennis Australia, journeying to Melbourne and Adelaide this week.

"It's just crazy, we've never seen anything like it," he told the Tennis Channel.

"Logistically, to pull something like this off will be a small miracle but we are giving it a good go."

Even though Melbourne recently experienced a small new outbreak of the virus, Tiley expected crowd capacity at the Grand Slam to be around 50-75 percent, exceeding the biggest audience for a tennis tournament since the pandemic started.

"We are doing the best we can to deliver an Australian Open to as close as it was in 2020," he said. "Hopefully there will be normalcy to it."&nbsp;

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch.

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch. The calendar's first Grand Slam normally starts in the third week of January but planning for this year's tournament has been a logistical nightmare for beleaguered organisers. Tennis Australia initially wanted players arriving in Melbourne by mid-December. But restrictions on international arrivals to the state of Victoria pushed back the tournament start date to February 8, with a series of WTA and ATP events being played at Melbourne the week before to ensure players are up to speed. Melbourne was the epicentre of Australia's largest second wave outbreak of coronavirus, which prompted strict lockdown measures for four months. This grim backdrop fuelled tense negotiations between government officials, organisers and players to iron out an agreeable health security protocol for the Australian Open. The sticking point had been over allowing players to practise during the compulsory 14-day quarantine period but eventually authorities gave the green light and granted daily five-hour blocks for training and treatment. Players, however, face stricter measures compared to last year's US and French Opens held in cities stricken by the virus and will be required to spend 19 hours daily during quarantine confined to their hotel rooms. Defending Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin admitted it was "not the most ideal situation". "It is what it is. The rules are quite harsh, but it's for everyone," she said. There is also the threat of sanctions, including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if the rules are broken. Ukrainian world number five Elina Svitolina hired a mental coach in an effort to cope with the stress and uncertainty. "I think during the difficult time right now, mentally it's very important to stay strong, to stay fresh," she said. - 'Just crazy' - Six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer's decision to withdraw -- breaking his record streak of 21 straight singles appearances in Melbourne -- affects the pulling power of the tournament, which was left reeling after suggestions he skipped because of the quarantine rules. The 39-year-old had two rounds of knee surgery last year and has not played since his semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 12 months ago. "The problem is that Mirka (Federer's wife) and their children couldn't leave the room," Tennis Australia's head of player liaisons Andre Sa told Brazilian media. "They would have to stay 14 days in the room. The exception is only for players." Just days ahead of players arriving organisers were forced into a scramble to find more accommodation after a luxury Melbourne hotel due to host them pulled out. In a late twist, it was revealed Saturday that a contingent of up to 50 -– including top stars Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka -– would quarantine instead in Adelaide with an exhibition tournament held there prior to the Australian Open. It led to world number 72 Jeremy Chardy accusing organisers of preferential treatment. Australian Open chief Craig Tiley admitted there would be "some benefits" for players amid the smaller cohort in Adelaide but said "the conditions of training will be the same". Tiley said the toll on organisers had been immense with a 1,270-strong contingent on 80 charter flights, bankrolled by Tennis Australia, journeying to Melbourne and Adelaide this week. "It's just crazy, we've never seen anything like it," he told the Tennis Channel. "Logistically, to pull something like this off will be a small miracle but we are giving it a good go." Even though Melbourne recently experienced a small new outbreak of the virus, Tiley expected crowd capacity at the Grand Slam to be around 50-75 percent, exceeding the biggest audience for a tennis tournament since the pandemic started. "We are doing the best we can to deliver an Australian Open to as close as it was in 2020," he said. "Hopefully there will be normalcy to it."

Strict quarantine awaits world's top tennis stars in Australia

Australian Open organisers were forced to find new quarantine accommodation for players Tuesday after a hotel pulled out, reportedly because of concerns from residents.

Organisers of the year's first tennis grand slam confirmed they had secured new hotel accommodation after Melbourne's The Westin cancelled plans to house tennis players during two weeks of quarantine ahead of the tournament.

"Several hotels in Melbourne have already been secured, including a replacement for the Westin, to safely accommodate the international playing group," organisers said in a statement.

Local media reported that a legal threat from several permanent residents in the luxury hotel had scuppered the plan to host players there.

The news comes 10 days before the first players are expected to arrive in the city.

The start of the opening Grand Slam of 2021 has already been delayed until February 8, to allow players to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine imposed on all overseas arrivals before taking part in a week of warm-up tournaments.

Melbourne only emerged from a months-long lockdown in October following a second wave of Covid-19, complicating planning for the Grand Slam.

Australia has largely contained the coronavirus, although fresh outbreaks in Sydney and Melbourne have forced authorities to reintroduce some restrictions, including state border closures.&nbsp;

Australian Open organisers were forced to find new quarantine accommodation for players Tuesday after a hotel pulled out, reportedly because of concerns from residents.

Australian Open organisers were forced to find new quarantine accommodation for players Tuesday after a hotel pulled out, reportedly because of concerns from residents. Organisers of the year's first tennis grand slam confirmed they had secured new hotel accommodation after Melbourne's The Westin cancelled plans to house tennis players during two weeks of quarantine ahead of the tournament. "Several hotels in Melbourne have already been secured, including a replacement for the Westin, to safely accommodate the international playing group," organisers said in a statement. Local media reported that a legal threat from several permanent residents in the luxury hotel had scuppered the plan to host players there. The news comes 10 days before the first players are expected to arrive in the city. The start of the opening Grand Slam of 2021 has already been delayed until February 8, to allow players to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine imposed on all overseas arrivals before taking part in a week of warm-up tournaments. Melbourne only emerged from a months-long lockdown in October following a second wave of Covid-19, complicating planning for the Grand Slam. Australia has largely contained the coronavirus, although fresh outbreaks in Sydney and Melbourne have forced authorities to reintroduce some restrictions, including state border closures.

Australian Open forced to switch player quarantine hotel

The 20-time grand slam champion Roger Federer is withdrawing from the Australian Open while he continues preparing to return to action after two operations on his right knee, his agent said.

Tony Godsick — Federer’s long-time representative and CEO of their management company, TEAM8 — said he is working on putting together a 2021 tennis calendar for him, who plans to get back on tour soon after the year’s first major tennis tournament.

The 39-year-old Swiss last played a competitive match at the season-opening Grand Slam in January before he had to undergo surgery on his knee. He later required a second operation.

The start of the 2021 Australian Open has been delayed for three weeks until February 8 due to the country's strict border rules to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Federer, who had been training at his off-season base in Dubai, had told organisers that the delayed start to the tournament could benefit him. 
However, his agent Tony Godsick said Federer was not quite ready to return.

"Roger has decided not to play the 2021 Australian Open," Godsick said in a statement. "He has made strong progress in the last couple of months with his knee and his fitness.

"However, after consultation with his team, he decided that the best decision for him in the long run is to return to competitive tennis after the Australian Open."

Godsick added that he was looking to build a playing calendar for Federer from late February.

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said they were disappointed to lose Federer for next year`s event.

"In the end Roger ran out of time to get himself ready for the rigours of a Grand Slam and he`s very disappointed he won`t be coming to Melbourne in 2021," Tiley said in a statement.

"We wish him all the best as he prepares for his comeback later in the year and look forward to seeing him in Melbourne in 2022."

Federer has been an ever-present at Melbourne Park since his first appearance when he lost in qualifying in 1999.

He has made 15 trips to the semi-finals and won the last of his six Melbourne titles in 2018.

Federer made the semis earlier this year, losing to eventual winner Novak Djokovic.

(With inputs from agencies)

The 20-time grand slam champion Roger Federer is withdrawing from the Australian Open while he continues preparing to return to action after two operations on his right knee, his agent said.

The 20-time grand slam champion Roger Federer is withdrawing from the Australian Open while he continues preparing to return to action after two operations on his right knee, his agent said. Tony Godsick — Federer’s long-time representative and CEO of their management company, TEAM8 — said he is working on putting together a 2021 tennis calendar for him, who plans to get back on tour soon after the year’s first major tennis tournament. The 39-year-old Swiss last played a competitive match at the season-opening Grand Slam in January before he had to undergo surgery on his knee. He later required a second operation. The start of the 2021 Australian Open has been delayed for three weeks until February 8 due to the country's strict border rules to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Federer, who had been training at his off-season base in Dubai, had told organisers that the delayed start to the tournament could benefit him. However, his agent Tony Godsick said Federer was not quite ready to return. "Roger has decided not to play the 2021 Australian Open," Godsick said in a statement. "He has made strong progress in the last couple of months with his knee and his fitness. "However, after consultation with his team, he decided that the best decision for him in the long run is to return to competitive tennis after the Australian Open." Godsick added that he was looking to build a playing calendar for Federer from late February. Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said they were disappointed to lose Federer for next year`s event. "In the end Roger ran out of time to get himself ready for the rigours of a Grand Slam and he`s very disappointed he won`t be coming to Melbourne in 2021," Tiley said in a statement. "We wish him all the best as he prepares for his comeback later in the year and look forward to seeing him in Melbourne in 2022." Federer has been an ever-present at Melbourne Park since his first appearance when he lost in qualifying in 1999. He has made 15 trips to the semi-finals and won the last of his six Melbourne titles in 2018. Federer made the semis earlier this year, losing to eventual winner Novak Djokovic. (With inputs from agencies)

Roger Federer out of Australian Open after knee surgery but planning 2021 return: Agent

Roger Federer and Serena Williams were among the entries announced Thursday for the coronavirus-disrupted Australian Open, with tournament director Craig Tiley vowing a "happy Slam" after months of painstaking planning.

All the world's top players have signed on, led by world number ones Novak Djokovic and Ashleigh Barty.

There was a question mark over Swiss great Federer, who warned this month he was in a "race against time" to be fit after two rounds of knee surgery.

But he has begun training in Dubai and was among those entered to play at Melbourne Park as he targets a seventh title.

US superstar Williams, who like Federer turns 40 next year, is also committed as she once again attempts to pull level with Margaret Court as a 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Her last triumph at the majors came in Australia in 2017 when she was pregnant.

"There are so many great storylines for AO 2021," said Tiley.&nbsp;

"Serena is gunning for her eighth title while Novak, who often seems invincible at Melbourne Park, is going for a record ninth title.&nbsp;

"Our own world No.1 Ash Barty will return to Grand Slam competition, as will Roger Federer as he comes back from injury."

The opening Grand Slam of the year, which will be played in front of at least 50 percent of normal crowds, has been pushed back three weeks until February 8.

All players must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival, during which they will constantly be tested for Covid-19 but allowed to train for five hours a day in a bio-secure bubble.

"Although the AO will look a bit different to previous years, the safety of everyone is our top priority," said Tiley.&nbsp;

"We have the opportunity to stage a very safe, and happy Slam, and give the players the experience of competing in front of crowds again, something they've missed for most of this year."

The men's and women's qualifiers will be held in Doha and Dubai respectively from January 10-13, with players arriving in Melbourne from January 15 on special charter flights.

A slimmed-down, 12-team ATP Cup, the relocated Adelaide International, and a ATP 250 tournament will all be played in Melbourne once players are out of isolation.

Two WTA 500 tournaments are also planned to be held concurrently at Melbourne Park on January 31-February 7.

Melbourne only emerged from a months-long lockdown in October following a second wave of Covid-19, complicating planning for the Grand Slam and how to allow so many players and support staff to enter the country safely.

Australia has largely contained the coronavirus although a new outbreak in Sydney last week has sparked fresh restrictions in parts of the city and even state border closures.

Roger Federer and Serena Williams were among the entries announced Thursday for the coronavirus-disrupted Australian Open, with tournament director Craig Tiley vowing a "happy Slam" after months of painstaking planning.

Roger Federer and Serena Williams were among the entries announced Thursday for the coronavirus-disrupted Australian Open, with tournament director Craig Tiley vowing a "happy Slam" after months of painstaking planning. All the world's top players have signed on, led by world number ones Novak Djokovic and Ashleigh Barty. There was a question mark over Swiss great Federer, who warned this month he was in a "race against time" to be fit after two rounds of knee surgery. But he has begun training in Dubai and was among those entered to play at Melbourne Park as he targets a seventh title. US superstar Williams, who like Federer turns 40 next year, is also committed as she once again attempts to pull level with Margaret Court as a 24-time Grand Slam champion. Her last triumph at the majors came in Australia in 2017 when she was pregnant. "There are so many great storylines for AO 2021," said Tiley. "Serena is gunning for her eighth title while Novak, who often seems invincible at Melbourne Park, is going for a record ninth title. "Our own world No.1 Ash Barty will return to Grand Slam competition, as will Roger Federer as he comes back from injury." The opening Grand Slam of the year, which will be played in front of at least 50 percent of normal crowds, has been pushed back three weeks until February 8. All players must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival, during which they will constantly be tested for Covid-19 but allowed to train for five hours a day in a bio-secure bubble. "Although the AO will look a bit different to previous years, the safety of everyone is our top priority," said Tiley. "We have the opportunity to stage a very safe, and happy Slam, and give the players the experience of competing in front of crowds again, something they've missed for most of this year." The men's and women's qualifiers will be held in Doha and Dubai respectively from January 10-13, with players arriving in Melbourne from January 15 on special charter flights. A slimmed-down, 12-team ATP Cup, the relocated Adelaide International, and a ATP 250 tournament will all be played in Melbourne once players are out of isolation. Two WTA 500 tournaments are also planned to be held concurrently at Melbourne Park on January 31-February 7. Melbourne only emerged from a months-long lockdown in October following a second wave of Covid-19, complicating planning for the Grand Slam and how to allow so many players and support staff to enter the country safely. Australia has largely contained the coronavirus although a new outbreak in Sydney last week has sparked fresh restrictions in parts of the city and even state border closures.

Federer, Serena among entries for Australian Open

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled.

The main draw of the Australian Open was originally about to commence on January 18, however, the organisers of Tennis Australia have been in drawn-out negotiations with local government over Covid-19 health measures.

Tennis Australia was not immediately available for comment.&nbsp;

According to ATP release, men’s qualifying for the Australian Open would take place in Doha from January 10-13 before players relocated to Melbourne to enter quarantine.

The ATP tournament that was supposed to be held in Adelaide but has been moved to Melbourne to be played in the week commencing January 31 alongisde another men’s tournament in the city.

A shortened version of the ATP Cup men’s team tournament will take place in Melbourne from February 1-5 before the Grand Slam begins on the following Monday.

The Tennis season will kickoff with tournaments in Delray Beach, Florida and Antalya in Turkey before preparations for Melbourne Park begin.

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled.

ATP Tour on Thursday released an update of its calendar for 2021 revising the first seven weeks of the season and announced that the Australian Open will kick-off on February 8, three weeks later than scheduled. The main draw of the Australian Open was originally about to commence on January 18, however, the organisers of Tennis Australia have been in drawn-out negotiations with local government over Covid-19 health measures. Tennis Australia was not immediately available for comment. According to ATP release, men’s qualifying for the Australian Open would take place in Doha from January 10-13 before players relocated to Melbourne to enter quarantine. The ATP tournament that was supposed to be held in Adelaide but has been moved to Melbourne to be played in the week commencing January 31 alongisde another men’s tournament in the city. A shortened version of the ATP Cup men’s team tournament will take place in Melbourne from February 1-5 before the Grand Slam begins on the following Monday. The Tennis season will kickoff with tournaments in Delray Beach, Florida and Antalya in Turkey before preparations for Melbourne Park begin.

Australian Open to commence on February 8: ATP

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