<p>Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour.</p>

<p>Kyrgios said that Thiem wasn’t on the same “intellectual level” after the Aussie called his criticism “cheap” while claiming it was sheer “bad luck” that Zverev was caught partying after publicly promising to self isolate.</p>

<p>The likes of Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of the second leg of Adria Tour, an exhibition series organized by Djokovic. Players were seen hugging and embracing across the net in front of a capacity crowd.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-british-open-to-take-place-with-no-fans-organisers-311446" hreflang="en"><strong>Women's British Open to take place with no fans: Organisers</strong></a></p>

<p>"Kyrgios has really done a lot of nonsense himself. That's why I understand even less when he interferes everywhere," Thiem told German media this week.</p>

<p>"It would be better for him to come clean instead of always criticising others."</p>

<p>However, Kyrgios didn’t hold back his words as he took to Twitter to write: "What are you talking about @ThiemDomi? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does?&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What are you talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1280650458374172672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I'm coming from. I'm trying to hold them accountable."</p>

<p>Kyrgios added: "This just shows what a joke @ThiemDomi @AlexZverev &amp; @DjokerNole think this is, 2 of them partying like potato's during a global pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What are you talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/ThiemDomi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThiemDomi</a> ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1280650458374172672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"People losing lives, loved ones and friends, and then Thiem standing up for the 'mistake'. These guys are the 'top' of our sport. SMH (shaking my head)."</p>

<p>Earlier, Kyrgios lashed out at German legend Boris Becker, who had called him a “rat” for singling out Zverev.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"@TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. Can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though," he fired back.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/TheBorisBecker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheBorisBecker</a> is a bigger doughnut than I thought. 😂😂 can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though.</p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1277878843101966337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Wednesday questioned Dominic Thiem’s intellect after the latter asked him to stop criticizing fellow colleagues Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic over their participation in the ill-fated Adria Tour. Kyrgios said that Thiem wasn’t on the same “intellectual level” after the Aussie called his criticism “cheap” while claiming it was sheer “bad luck” that Zverev was caught partying after publicly promising to self isolate. The likes of Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of the second leg of Adria Tour, an exhibition series organized by Djokovic. Players were seen hugging and embracing across the net in front of a capacity crowd. ALSO READ: Women's British Open to take place with no fans: Organisers "Kyrgios has really done a lot of nonsense himself. That's why I understand even less when he interferes everywhere," Thiem told German media this week. "It would be better for him to come clean instead of always criticising others." However, Kyrgios didn’t hold back his words as he took to Twitter to write: "What are you talking about @ThiemDomi? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? What are you talking about @ThiemDomi ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) July 7, 2020 × "None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I'm coming from. I'm trying to hold them accountable." Kyrgios added: "This just shows what a joke @ThiemDomi @AlexZverev & @DjokerNole think this is, 2 of them partying like potato's during a global pandemic. What are you talking about @ThiemDomi ? Mistakes like smashing rackets? Swearing? Tanking a few matches here or there? Which everyone does? None of you have the intellectual level to even understand where I’m coming from. I’m trying to hold them accountable. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) July 7, 2020 × "People losing lives, loved ones and friends, and then Thiem standing up for the 'mistake'. These guys are the 'top' of our sport. SMH (shaking my head)." Earlier, Kyrgios lashed out at German legend Boris Becker, who had called him a “rat” for singling out Zverev. "@TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. Can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though," he fired back. @TheBorisBecker is a bigger doughnut than I thought. 😂😂 can hit a volley, obviously not the sharpest tool in the shed though. — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 30, 2020 ×

'What are you talking about?' - Nick Kyrgios slams Dominic Thiem in coronavirus row

<p>Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has defender Novak Djokovic for hosting the controversial Adria Tour where a number of players, including Djokovic himself, tested positive for COVID-19. While widespread criticism has since followed Djokovic, the Manchester United footballer has defended his Serbian counterpart as he said he didn't do something wrong.</p>

<p>Djokovic along with his coach Goran Ivanisevic and players Borna Coric, Grigor Dimitrov and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for coronavirus after the completion of events in Serbia and Croatia. While the events saw packed grounds with no social distancing measures in place. Even players were seen partying in a nightclub to celebrate the events.</p>

<p><strong>OPINION:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Before that tournament, there was a game with 20,000 people and nobody said anything about that: Matic</strong></h2>

<p>“People need to understand that the situation in Serbia was better than here (in England). The country allowed everyone to do whatever they want, everything was open, the shopping centres and the restaurants,” Matic told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>“So they started to live normal lives because our country was closed for three months completely. You were not allowed to walk on the street, you couldn’t leave your home, so it was different (than England).”</p>

<p>While some exhibition events have been played behind closed doors, the Adria Tour attracted jam-packed crowd, mainly due to the big-name players participating in the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itf-official-slams-novak-djokovics-father-for-accusing-grigor-dimitrov-of-spreading-covid-19-into-tennis-world-308783" hreflang="en">ITF official slams Novak Djokovic's father for accusing Grigor Dimitrov of spreading COVID-19 into tennis world</a></strong></p>

<p>“When they opened they said, ‘you are more than free to do whatever you want’,” Matic added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Before that tournament, there was a game with 20,000 people and nobody said anything about that.</p>

<p>“I just wanted to say that it is not his fault that he made the tournament, he just wanted to help the players play competitions. I don’t see that he (did) something wrong.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has defender Novak Djokovic for hosting the controversial Adria Tour where a number of players, including Djokovic himself, tested positive for COVID-19.

Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has defender Novak Djokovic for hosting the controversial Adria Tour where a number of players, including Djokovic himself, tested positive for COVID-19. While widespread criticism has since followed Djokovic, the Manchester United footballer has defended his Serbian counterpart as he said he didn't do something wrong. Djokovic along with his coach Goran Ivanisevic and players Borna Coric, Grigor Dimitrov and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for coronavirus after the completion of events in Serbia and Croatia. While the events saw packed grounds with no social distancing measures in place. Even players were seen partying in a nightclub to celebrate the events. OPINION: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world Before that tournament, there was a game with 20,000 people and nobody said anything about that: Matic “People need to understand that the situation in Serbia was better than here (in England). The country allowed everyone to do whatever they want, everything was open, the shopping centres and the restaurants,” Matic told Sky Sports. “So they started to live normal lives because our country was closed for three months completely. You were not allowed to walk on the street, you couldn’t leave your home, so it was different (than England).” While some exhibition events have been played behind closed doors, the Adria Tour attracted jam-packed crowd, mainly due to the big-name players participating in the tournament. ALSO READ: ITF official slams Novak Djokovic's father for accusing Grigor Dimitrov of spreading COVID-19 into tennis world “When they opened they said, ‘you are more than free to do whatever you want’,” Matic added. “Before that tournament, there was a game with 20,000 people and nobody said anything about that. “I just wanted to say that it is not his fault that he made the tournament, he just wanted to help the players play competitions. I don’t see that he (did) something wrong.”

It is not his fault: Manchester United's Nemanja Matic defends Novak Djokovic for organising ill-fated Adria Tour

<p>Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media. In the video, Zverev is seen partying at a crowded club in Monte Carlo when he was supposed to isolate himself.</p>

<p>Earlier last week, Zverev said he would be self-isolating himself after several players who participated in the controversial Adria Tour, were tested positive for COVID-19, including Novak Djokovic himself. While Zverev tested negative for the virus, he put out an apology for his participation in the events and promised to follow the self-isolation guidelines for 14 days.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/egVyfJAS6H">pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H</a></p>
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<p>Taking to Instagram, Kyrgios slammed Zverev by saying the German tennis star should have the “audacity” to isolate himself after announcing it on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>How selfish can you be?, asks&nbsp;Kyrgios</strong></h2>

<p>"I see more controversial things happening around the world, but one thing that stuck out for me was seeing Sasha Zverev, again man, again. How selfish can you be? How selfish can you be?</p>

<p>"If you have the audacity to put out a tweet that you made your management f---ing write on your behalf saying you're going to self-isolate for 14-days, and apologising to the general public for putting their health at risk - at least have the f---ing audacity to stay inside for 14 days. My god.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I mean. No doubt. Several different sources show Alexander Zverev at Anjuna Plage Private Club in Monte Carlo. <a href="https://t.co/sjZEx0i5n9">pic.twitter.com/sjZEx0i5n9</a></p>
— Simon Häring (@_shaering) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shaering/status/1277331355395899397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/half-of-tokyo-residents-oppose-olympics-in-2021-poll-309305" hreflang="en">Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll</a></strong></p>

<p>"Have your girlfriend with you for 14 days. This tennis world's p---ing me off, seriously. How selfish can you all get?"</p>

<p>The Adria Tour raised many eyebrows as it allowed packed stands with no social distancing norms in place. It was followed by four participants including the organizer and player Djokovic being tested positive for coronavirus. The rest of the Adria Tour was cancelled after the results came out.</p>

<p>Djokovic has earlier defended himself against criticism over Adria Tour but apologized after fellow players and himself contracted the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We believed the tournament met all health protocols and the health of our region seemed in good condition to finally unite people for philanthropic reasons. We were wrong and it was too soon," Djokovic said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media. In the video, Zverev is seen partying at a crowded club in Monte Carlo when he was supposed to isolate himself. Earlier last week, Zverev said he would be self-isolating himself after several players who participated in the controversial Adria Tour, were tested positive for COVID-19, including Novak Djokovic himself. While Zverev tested negative for the virus, he put out an apology for his participation in the events and promised to follow the self-isolation guidelines for 14 days. pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H — Alexander Zverev (@AlexZverev) June 22, 2020 × Taking to Instagram, Kyrgios slammed Zverev by saying the German tennis star should have the “audacity” to isolate himself after announcing it on social media. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world How selfish can you be?, asks Kyrgios "I see more controversial things happening around the world, but one thing that stuck out for me was seeing Sasha Zverev, again man, again. How selfish can you be? How selfish can you be? "If you have the audacity to put out a tweet that you made your management f---ing write on your behalf saying you're going to self-isolate for 14-days, and apologising to the general public for putting their health at risk - at least have the f---ing audacity to stay inside for 14 days. My god. I mean. No doubt. Several different sources show Alexander Zverev at Anjuna Plage Private Club in Monte Carlo. pic.twitter.com/sjZEx0i5n9 — Simon Häring (@_shaering) June 28, 2020 × ALSO READ: Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll "Have your girlfriend with you for 14 days. This tennis world's p---ing me off, seriously. How selfish can you all get?" The Adria Tour raised many eyebrows as it allowed packed stands with no social distancing norms in place. It was followed by four participants including the organizer and player Djokovic being tested positive for coronavirus. The rest of the Adria Tour was cancelled after the results came out. Djokovic has earlier defended himself against criticism over Adria Tour but apologized after fellow players and himself contracted the virus. "We believed the tournament met all health protocols and the health of our region seemed in good condition to finally unite people for philanthropic reasons. We were wrong and it was too soon," Djokovic said.

'How selfish can you be?' - Nick Kyrgios tears apart Alexander Zverev over viral party video at crowded club

<p>Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by&nbsp;apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself.</p>

<p>Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Viktor Troicki and Borna Coric have been tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of exhibition events in Serbia and Croatia. While crowds were allowed to witness the return of tennis, social distancing and health safety measures were tossed out of the window with players embracing at the net, playing basketball together and partying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thiem was the winner of the Belgrade leg of Adria Tour at Djokovic’s tennis centre by Danube river. However, the 26-year-old has now realized the devastating effect of Tour on the world of tennis with severe backlash from the community.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>I am extremely sorry: Dominic Thiem</strong></h2>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adria-tour-latest-series-of-gaffes-from-novak-djokovic-308316" hreflang="en">Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic</a></strong></p>

<p>“We played without an audience for weeks, so we have been more than happy about the fans at the event,” Thiem said in an Instagram post. “We trusted the Serbian government’s corona rules, but we have been too optimistic.</p>

<p>“Our behaviour was a mistake, we acted too euphorically. I am extremely sorry.”</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CB2bvHBlA_f/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Dominic Thiem (@domithiem)</a> on <time datetime="2020-06-25T07:58:13+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 25, 2020 at 12:58am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Even though players didn’t break government protocols during the tournament, it allowed everyone to witness how a casual approach towards the virus could turn into a catastrophe.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<p>Thiem didn’t play in Zadar due to his commitment with Ultimate Tennis Showdown, which is being held on weekends at the Patrick Mouratoglou’s academy in France.</p>

<p>“I’ve now got tested five times within the last ten days and the result was always negative. I wish everyone who is infected all the best and quick recovery,” Thiem added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself.

Dominic Thiem has followed Novak Djokovic by apologising for his conduct in the much-talked-about Adria Tour following which four tennis players have tested positive for coronavirus including Djokovic himself. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Viktor Troicki and Borna Coric have been tested positive for COVID-19 after the completion of exhibition events in Serbia and Croatia. While crowds were allowed to witness the return of tennis, social distancing and health safety measures were tossed out of the window with players embracing at the net, playing basketball together and partying. Thiem was the winner of the Belgrade leg of Adria Tour at Djokovic’s tennis centre by Danube river. However, the 26-year-old has now realized the devastating effect of Tour on the world of tennis with severe backlash from the community. I am extremely sorry: Dominic Thiem ALSO READ: Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic “We played without an audience for weeks, so we have been more than happy about the fans at the event,” Thiem said in an Instagram post. “We trusted the Serbian government’s corona rules, but we have been too optimistic. “Our behaviour was a mistake, we acted too euphorically. I am extremely sorry.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dominic Thiem (@domithiem) on Jun 25, 2020 at 12:58am PDT × Even though players didn’t break government protocols during the tournament, it allowed everyone to witness how a casual approach towards the virus could turn into a catastrophe. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world Thiem didn’t play in Zadar due to his commitment with Ultimate Tennis Showdown, which is being held on weekends at the Patrick Mouratoglou’s academy in France. “I’ve now got tested five times within the last ten days and the result was always negative. I wish everyone who is infected all the best and quick recovery,” Thiem added.

'We acted too euphorically, I am extremely sorry': Dominic Thiem apologises over Adria Tour mishap

<p>He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;The fallout from the Adria Tour is the latest in a series of gaffes from the Serbian over the last 3 months - and his position as the leader of the ATP players council now seems untenable.</p>

<h2>Boneheaded...Irresponsible...Disastrous...Shocking...</h2>

<p>These are just some of the words that have been used to describe Novak Djokovic and his ill-fated Adria Tour over the last week...</p>

<p>The catastrophe had seemed inevitable ever since the first images of the opening leg in Belgrade hit the internet - packed stands, Kids’ Day celebrations, players hugging and high-fiving each other despite the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a></strong></p>

<p>And it predictably struck in Zadar this past weekend - as 2 coaches and 4 players including Djokovic himself tested positive for the coronavirus...</p>

<p>After his initial defiance - the Serbian tried to save face with an apology in which he conceded it was too soon to host the charity event without any distancing measures - but the damage had already been done.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Djokovic’s good friend Andy Murray had no way to defend him - particularly over this party in a Belgrade night club, where forget distancing - the players were dancing around shirtless.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-a-surprise-really-andy-murray-reacts-to-novak-djokovic-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-308223" hreflang="en">'Wasn't a surprise really': Andy Murray reacts to Novak Djokovic testing positive for coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>Murray said - “in hindsight, with what’s happened there, it is not a good look. When you are going through a time like this, it’s important any of the top athletes around the world should be showing that we are taking this extremely seriously, knowing that we are using social distancing measures and whatever it is"</p>

<p>All through the lockdown - Djokovic has found himself on the wrong side of the coronavirus debate...</p>

<p>In April he said he was opposed to the idea of vaccinations - and was slammed by the Serbian health authority for fueling conspiracy theories...</p>

<p>His ignorance of science has been on display in numerous social media chats with a charlatan - with Djokovic going as far as to say that the 'power of prayer' could purify polluted water.</p>

<p>Even Djokovic’s wife Jelena - who has also tested positive - promoted a tin-foil theory linking 5-g technology to the coronavirus - that was flagged as false information by Instagram.</p>

<p>The Djoker has always held controversial opinions - but now his leadership as the head of the ATP players’ council is also under question.</p>

<p>"I don't know. Honestly, when I sit in those meetings, I don't know how they -- how it really works and how they get to those positions but, put it this way, I don't think he (Novak Djokovic) should be having a players' party and dancing all over each other and then two very good tennis players have tested positive. He should feel some responsibility in his event and how it's transpired really</p>

<p>Criticism of Djokovic from his fellow players began earlier this month when he opposed the u-s open going ahead over what he called 'extreme protocols'...</p>

<p>The Serbian was also accused of missing key player council meetings with the ATP about safety and tennis's plans to return to action in order to play football.</p>

<p>Last year - he was instrumental in the exit of ATP chief executive Chris Kermode...prompting such concern from Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal that they decided to rejoin the 10-man council and provide a powerful contrarian view...&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now that his Adria Tour has single-handedly jeopardised the return of tour-level tennis - it is inconceivable for Djokovic to be allowed to continue as the chief representative of the interests of all the players.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He may be a 17-time grand slam champion, world number 1 and on-course to become the most successful men's tennis player of all time. But Novak Djokovic's stock has taken a real pounding during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fallout from the Adria Tour is the latest in a series of gaffes from the Serbian over the last 3 months - and his position as the leader of the ATP players council now seems untenable. Boneheaded...Irresponsible...Disastrous...Shocking... These are just some of the words that have been used to describe Novak Djokovic and his ill-fated Adria Tour over the last week... The catastrophe had seemed inevitable ever since the first images of the opening leg in Belgrade hit the internet - packed stands, Kids’ Day celebrations, players hugging and high-fiving each other despite the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world And it predictably struck in Zadar this past weekend - as 2 coaches and 4 players including Djokovic himself tested positive for the coronavirus... After his initial defiance - the Serbian tried to save face with an apology in which he conceded it was too soon to host the charity event without any distancing measures - but the damage had already been done. Even Djokovic’s good friend Andy Murray had no way to defend him - particularly over this party in a Belgrade night club, where forget distancing - the players were dancing around shirtless. ALSO READ: 'Wasn't a surprise really': Andy Murray reacts to Novak Djokovic testing positive for coronavirus Murray said - “in hindsight, with what’s happened there, it is not a good look. When you are going through a time like this, it’s important any of the top athletes around the world should be showing that we are taking this extremely seriously, knowing that we are using social distancing measures and whatever it is" All through the lockdown - Djokovic has found himself on the wrong side of the coronavirus debate... In April he said he was opposed to the idea of vaccinations - and was slammed by the Serbian health authority for fueling conspiracy theories... His ignorance of science has been on display in numerous social media chats with a charlatan - with Djokovic going as far as to say that the 'power of prayer' could purify polluted water. Even Djokovic’s wife Jelena - who has also tested positive - promoted a tin-foil theory linking 5-g technology to the coronavirus - that was flagged as false information by Instagram. The Djoker has always held controversial opinions - but now his leadership as the head of the ATP players’ council is also under question. "I don't know. Honestly, when I sit in those meetings, I don't know how they -- how it really works and how they get to those positions but, put it this way, I don't think he (Novak Djokovic) should be having a players' party and dancing all over each other and then two very good tennis players have tested positive. He should feel some responsibility in his event and how it's transpired really Criticism of Djokovic from his fellow players began earlier this month when he opposed the u-s open going ahead over what he called 'extreme protocols'... The Serbian was also accused of missing key player council meetings with the ATP about safety and tennis's plans to return to action in order to play football. Last year - he was instrumental in the exit of ATP chief executive Chris Kermode...prompting such concern from Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal that they decided to rejoin the 10-man council and provide a powerful contrarian view... Now that his Adria Tour has single-handedly jeopardised the return of tour-level tennis - it is inconceivable for Djokovic to be allowed to continue as the chief representative of the interests of all the players.

Adria Tour: Latest series of gaffes from Novak Djokovic

<p>Tennis world was back to life after successful completion of the first leg of Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour last week. Following the successful completion of the Adria Tour, elite tennis stars including Djokovic, Alexader Zverev, Dominic Thiem and Grigor Dimitrov were seen celebrating in a nightclub in Belgrade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tour was set-up by Djokovic in the Balkans to give fans a taste of what they were missing with the tennis season suspended.</p>

<p><img alt="Novak Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7334806e-218e-441f-a358-7e549cc0c8ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1TG3NM.jpg" /></p>

<p>So no social distancing, players embracing at the net, ball kids on the courts – it was business as usual. Some would say it was an alternate reality that was pushing fate. The coronavirus has hit back with both Grigor Dimitrov and Borna Coric tested positive for the dreaded virus and the Tour has been called off.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/croatias-coric-tests-positive-for-covid-19-307688" hreflang="en">Croatia's Coric tests positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>“We are really sorry, we tried our best to respect all measures, and we did respect all measures imposed by the governments of Serbia and Croatia. From our side, we did all we could but Grigor is unfortunately positive. At this moment we are organising all medical services to check all people who have been in contact with Grigor, they will all be tested,” said Djorde Djokovic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And those test results could spell trouble for Djokovic, who faced Coric on Saturday in the second lef of the Tour in Croatia. According to reports, Djokovic’s fitness trainer and coach have tested positive for COVID-19 as well.</p>

<p><img alt="Grigor Dimitrov" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fca6a497-1120-4bdb-9ca0-988848ce8b91" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1TG19G.jpg" /></p>

<p>Adding to the anxiety is a backlash against Djokovic who also heads the ATP player council with nick Keerios, Alize Cornet and Noah Rubin slamming the decision to cock a snook at the coronavirus.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️ Boneheaded decision to go ahead with the ‘exhibition’ speedy recovery fellas, but that’s what happens when you disregard all protocols. This IS NOT A JOKE. <a href="https://t.co/SUdxfijkbK">https://t.co/SUdxfijkbK</a></p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1274971571363344386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These are the people I feel I am fighting against, which is why I don’t answer every tweet. Some don’t deserve responses. Wake up. <a href="https://t.co/htNIGoGUWk">pic.twitter.com/htNIGoGUWk</a></p>
— Noah Rubin (@Noahrubin33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Noahrubin33/status/1274877238836592642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/egVyfJAS6H">pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H</a></p>
— Alexander Zverev (@AlexZverev) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexZverev/status/1275031791263535105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">While watching images from the Adria Tour, I kind of felt that something was really wrong... Am I the only one ? Is it a consequence of it ?<br />
Get better soon Grigor 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/GKfouQ5hwF">https://t.co/GKfouQ5hwF</a></p>
— Alize Cornet (@alizecornet) <a href="https://twitter.com/alizecornet/status/1274794894075334664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bulgarian-tennis-player-grigor-dimitrov-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-307575" hreflang="en">Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov tests positive for coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>And it’s not just Djokovic who is facing the wrath of the pandemic. Serbian football champions Red Star Belgrade have announced that 5 players have tested positive for the virus. This comes 12 days after their match against Partizan Belgrade with over 16,000 fans in attendance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Red Star Belgrade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9158b103-0ca0-4b4f-980c-e09e746a9b58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1T83EL.jpg" /></p>

<p>With cases declining, the Serbian government had relaxed lockdown measures in the country but clearly the decision to allow fans now seems ill-conceived</p>

<p>Whereas, New Zealand celebrated the end of the battle against the pandemic with 43,000 fans packing Eden Park in Auckland for a rugby game a few days ago.</p>

<p>And now fresh cases have emerged in the country again which have seen Jacinda Ardern’s government impose border controls again&nbsp;</p>

<p>With no vaccine in sight, the coronavirus cannot be wished away. And yet certain sporting bodies do not seem to have received the memo. Any event with large crowds is a magnet for the virus to strike again.</p>

<p>The German Bundesliga is nearing a month since resumption but strict protocols and social distancing have ensured no untoward incidents.</p>

<p>A ghostly silence has greeted television audiences who have tuned into the resumption of La Liga and the Premier League but if sport is to endure and battle back then empty stadiums are the new normal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is no time to play Russian roulette. The pandemic has just reminded us that it hasn’t thrown in the towel.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tennis world was back to life after successful completion of the first leg of Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour last week. Following the successful completion of the Adria Tour, elite tennis stars including Djokovic, Alexader Zverev, Dominic Thiem and Grigor Dimitrov were seen celebrating in a nightclub in Belgrade.

Tennis world was back to life after successful completion of the first leg of Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour last week. Following the successful completion of the Adria Tour, elite tennis stars including Djokovic, Alexader Zverev, Dominic Thiem and Grigor Dimitrov were seen celebrating in a nightclub in Belgrade. The Tour was set-up by Djokovic in the Balkans to give fans a taste of what they were missing with the tennis season suspended. So no social distancing, players embracing at the net, ball kids on the courts – it was business as usual. Some would say it was an alternate reality that was pushing fate. The coronavirus has hit back with both Grigor Dimitrov and Borna Coric tested positive for the dreaded virus and the Tour has been called off. ALSO READ: Croatia's Coric tests positive for COVID-19 “We are really sorry, we tried our best to respect all measures, and we did respect all measures imposed by the governments of Serbia and Croatia. From our side, we did all we could but Grigor is unfortunately positive. At this moment we are organising all medical services to check all people who have been in contact with Grigor, they will all be tested,” said Djorde Djokovic. And those test results could spell trouble for Djokovic, who faced Coric on Saturday in the second lef of the Tour in Croatia. According to reports, Djokovic’s fitness trainer and coach have tested positive for COVID-19 as well. Adding to the anxiety is a backlash against Djokovic who also heads the ATP player council with nick Keerios, Alize Cornet and Noah Rubin slamming the decision to cock a snook at the coronavirus. 🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️ Boneheaded decision to go ahead with the ‘exhibition’ speedy recovery fellas, but that’s what happens when you disregard all protocols. This IS NOT A JOKE. https://t.co/SUdxfijkbK — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) June 22, 2020 × These are the people I feel I am fighting against, which is why I don’t answer every tweet. Some don’t deserve responses. Wake up. pic.twitter.com/htNIGoGUWk — Noah Rubin (@Noahrubin33) June 22, 2020 × pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H — Alexander Zverev (@AlexZverev) June 22, 2020 × While watching images from the Adria Tour, I kind of felt that something was really wrong... Am I the only one ? Is it a consequence of it ? Get better soon Grigor 🙏 https://t.co/GKfouQ5hwF — Alize Cornet (@alizecornet) June 21, 2020 × ALSO READ: Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov tests positive for coronavirus And it’s not just Djokovic who is facing the wrath of the pandemic. Serbian football champions Red Star Belgrade have announced that 5 players have tested positive for the virus. This comes 12 days after their match against Partizan Belgrade with over 16,000 fans in attendance. With cases declining, the Serbian government had relaxed lockdown measures in the country but clearly the decision to allow fans now seems ill-conceived Whereas, New Zealand celebrated the end of the battle against the pandemic with 43,000 fans packing Eden Park in Auckland for a rugby game a few days ago. And now fresh cases have emerged in the country again which have seen Jacinda Ardern’s government impose border controls again With no vaccine in sight, the coronavirus cannot be wished away. And yet certain sporting bodies do not seem to have received the memo. Any event with large crowds is a magnet for the virus to strike again. The German Bundesliga is nearing a month since resumption but strict protocols and social distancing have ensured no untoward incidents. A ghostly silence has greeted television audiences who have tuned into the resumption of La Liga and the Premier League but if sport is to endure and battle back then empty stadiums are the new normal. This is no time to play Russian roulette. The pandemic has just reminded us that it hasn’t thrown in the towel.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic's Adria Tour comes as warning for sporting world

Croatia’s Borna Coric, who played in Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour exhibition tournament at the weekend, said on Monday he had tested positive for COVID-19. Coric’s positive test follows that of Grigor Dimitrov, who said on Sunday he had contracted the novel coronavirus.

Croatia’s Borna Coric, who played in Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour exhibition tournament at the weekend, said on Monday he had tested positive for COVID-19. Coric’s positive test follows that of Grigor Dimitrov, who said on Sunday he had contracted the novel coronavirus. Bulgarian Dimitrov also played in Djokovic’s event and the final in the Croatian coastal resort of Zadar was cancelled as a result. Organisers of other sports looking to resume from the coronavirus shutdown will be watching developments with some trepidation as they try to find the safest way of getting competition back underway. Coric, ranked No.33 in the world, revealed on Twitter that he had tested positive for COVID-19. “I want to make sure anyone who has been in contact with me during the last few days get tested,” the 23-year-old said. “I am really sorry for any harm I might have caused. I’m feeling well and don’t have any symptoms.” With international tennis suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, world number one Djokovic organised the Adria Tour as a charity event to be contested over four legs across the former Yugoslavia. Djokovic’s fitness coach Marco Panichi has also tested positive, Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal reported, quoting Croatia’s health institute. The tournament witnessed packed stands during the opening leg in Belgrade, players hugging at the net, posing for pictures together and dancing at clubs. With both Serbia and Croatia easing lockdown measures weeks before the event, players were not obliged to observe social distancing rules in either country. “It is recommended that anyone who has been in close contact for more than 10 minutes with the tennis player be advised to self-isolate for 14 days and to contact their doctor,” the event organisers said in a statement. Australian Nick Kyrgios asked on Twitter if Djokovic, Austrian Dominic Thiem and German Alexander Zverev had been tested following Dimitrov’s result. American tennis great Chris Evert has criticised the organisers for the lack of social-distancing, saying, “... total physical contact, no face masks, even the fans were without masks.. I don’t get it.”

Croatia's Coric tests positive for COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has left the entire sporting calendar shattered and tennis is one of the sports to be most affected by the dreaded virus. The AELTC on Wednesday announced that Wimbledon stands cancelled due to public health concerns linked to the dreaded virus and the 134th edition of the Championships will be staged from June 28, 2021, to July 11, 2021.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left the entire sporting calendar shattered and tennis is one of the sports to be most affected by the dreaded virus. The AELTC on Wednesday announced that Wimbledon stands cancelled due to public health concerns linked to the dreaded virus and the 134th edition of the Championships will be staged from June 28, 2021, to July 11, 2021. Earlier, the Rolland-Garros was postponed and will now be played from September 20 to October 4, 2020. While tennis players are bound to be a bit disappointed with the Wimbledon getting cancelled, but with the entire world facing an unprecedented scenario with the COVID-19 pandemic, this comes as a welcome move given the health concerns of everyone associated with the tournament. Ace Indian tennis player, Mahesh Bhupathi, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, gave his reactions to the cancellation of Wimbledon and opened up about a lot of things ranging from the idea of playing behind closed doors, the future of Roger Federer, tennis after COVID-19 pandemic, how he is spending his time during lockdown and much more. × Digvijay Singh Deo: Joined by one of the stalwarts of Indian sport and a three-time Wimbledon champion Mahesh Bhupathi. First reactions Mahesh, are you sad at the cancellation or was it inevitable? MB: As a tennis fan, I am heartbroken. Wimbledon has always been the epicenter of our sport. Even since I retired, I have spent every summer in London watching matches at sw19. But as sad as I am, the decision was expected given how serious the COVID-19 virus is, but hopefully, the situation will improve in the coming months and the sport will return soon. DSD: I’m going to play devils advocate here, Is it not too early to make that call, we are in early April? Wimbledon was scheduled for the end of June-almost three months away. The likes of Boris Becker were saying wait for some more time. MB: No I don't think so. A tournament of the magnitude of Wimbledon, within the time frame that it takes place in, generates a lot of revenue and involves a lot of planning. So all relevant stakeholders were consulted before the decision was taken. I know a lot of people in London who have contracted the virus and think the situation is only going to get worse, so I think the right decision was taken. A lot of factors have to be considered a lot of preparation goes into an event like this- for example, ball boys are trained from all over the world. So Wimbledon is always meticulous in their planning, and they felt like they wouldn't be able to do justice to the event. DSD: There also existed the option of playing behind closed doors, probably not the spectacle we would have wanted but across the world sporting bodies are waking up to that reality. Even England’s cricket world cup winning captain, Eoin Morgan offered the same solution to sports administrators on Wednesday. Do you think they should have been open to that idea? MB: I don't think playing without spectators is fair on the athletes, part of the experience is competing in front of packed houses which create the atmosphere and make the game more competitive. That's the setting in which an athlete thrives don't think it’s right to protect the fans and not the players or those people involved in the event. The players, umpires, ball boys and some staff will be present on the ground even if the tournament is held behind closed doors. So is it fair to put their health at risk to generate some TV revenue? DSD: There have been lots of reactions coming in across the board and predictably lots of disappointments. Why is Wimbledon so special to the players? MB: Wimbledon has always been and will continue to be the mecca of tennis. That is where the tennis world congregates once a year. Every grand slam winner and all the sport's big guns-past and present- are at the tournament. It's a celebration of the sport and that's something that the players will obviously miss. But at this time the health of the players and their families comes first. DSD: What you can’t control is father time and two of the most quoted reactions when it comes to the cancellation of Wimbledon are those of Roger Federer and Serena Williams, for both Wimbledon seemed to be a logical shot at winning another slam MB: The effect of the virus is going to be fairly significant when it comes to rewriting the history of the sport. This year's Wimbledon was probably Federer’s best opportunity to distance himself from his great rivals Rafael Nadal and Djokovic, in terms of the number of majors won. Serena Williams as well would have seen the tournament as a great opportunity to equal Margaret Court's record of 24 grand slam singles titles. I hope both of them are back for the tournament in 2021, but I think maybe 10 years down the line when we look back at this period, this break could be a significant chapter in the history of the sport. DSD: This current lockdown could work out well for Federer, he took a break to have surgery and now he isn’t losing any ranking points with the Olympics now shifted by a year, you get the feeling that 2021 will be his goodbye year. MB: I’ve learnt the hard way over the last few years that you must not write off Roger Federer. Even four years ago, many were saying that Wimbledon could be his last slam, but that obviously wasn't the case. He has the incredible ability to play only 10 or 12 tournaments in a year, but play them at the highest level, which is partly god gifted. I wouldn't be surprised if Federer continues to play for another 2-3 years. But all the tennis players are getting a bit restless, not being able to play is something they have not known, so it is very frustrating for them. Devastated https://t.co/Fg2c1EuTQY pic.twitter.com/cm1wE2VwIp — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) April 1, 2020 × DSD: There are some who feel the entire tennis season is under threat, you need immense fitness in this sport, the confines of the home and gyms aren’t going to get you match fit. MB: when you are unable to train, you lose your cardio conditioning and getting that back doesn't happen overnight. I'm not sure if the entire season is finished, as the virus subsides, tournaments will come thick and fast. I think the offseason will definitely be cancelled. The ATP & WTA will try and organise as many events as they can at the end of the year. DSD: There is also the question of player livelihoods. The top fifty probably have the capacity to withstand the tours shutting down but there is a serious problem down the rung. MB: Some tennis players get paid a lot of money, but anyone below the ranking of 50 are not getting any income, their coaches aren't getting any money. The whole ecosystem of the sport is at a standstill, and I think the ATP & the WTA have to quickly figure things out for the near future. DSD: When you then look at that situation globally there are so many players who play on the Challenger Tour, the ITF Circuit, some for as much as 3000 dollars winning cheques. All of them have been essentially furloughed too and don’t have any government programs to bank upon. And how are the Indian players managing during these tough times? MB: These are tough times for not just the players who are ranked in the 200s, but even for the players ranked outside the top 50, they have absolutely no income. India's Sumit Nagal is currently in an academy in Germany and I’m sure he's struggling every week because there's no money to be made. I don't know what the exact solution to the problem is, but I’m sure the ATP & WTA working on something. There have been significant contributions the tours have made to the pension plans over the last few years, so I think if they declare 'force majeure', they can get some money in the players' hands, which is crucial. DSD: Do you think the ITF, the ATP tour and the WTA tour and other bodies have the capacity to come up with a sort of relief package for players? Yes, tournaments also are facing the brunt but most have insurance… MB: Yes, it's a pretty bad situation for the players, for example, if you're working for a company or play professionally for a team, most of the organisations are standing by their employees in these times by guaranteeing their jobs, even if there is a pay cut involved. But where tennis is concerned, it's an individual sport, so you're not employed by anyone and you're not getting a paycheque. So unless the tours are able to figure things out quickly, there will be more than just frustration from the players' side in a few months. DSD: The French Open has been unilaterally pushed back to September - same dates as Federer’s Laver Cup. How is that clash going to pan out in your opinion, it is unheard of players skipping grand slam in this era? MB: I think once the season resumes, if and when it does, events like the French open and Laver Cup, which are clashing will have to come to a compromise. I do not see any top players skipping the French Open, it's another slam to be won and none of Nadal, Djokovic and Federer would want the other to get ahead in the race. But if anyone skips it, it might be Federer because of his involvement with the Laver Cup. But apart from that, there has to be a compromise. Everyone is renegotiating what they committed to for the long term. That is the only way forward at this point in time. DSD: For you personally what’s the schedule like during the lockdown, getting back to fitness is something I can see on your social media profiles. MB: I try to exercise once a day at least and of course I have an eight-year-old daughter at home, so we have to keep her entertained the whole day, which is not an easy task. She's dying to get back to school, luckily for us she has online classes from Monday, so half the day is taken care of. But other than that just killing time and trying to catch up with as many friends as possible, making sure they're fine. View this post on Instagram No Gyms, No problem!! Work at home , build strength , build immunity , fight the virus !!! man behind the scene @yeshu_hardcore #familyworkout @larabhupathi @healthifyme A post shared by Mahesh Bhupathi (@mbhupathi) on Mar 14, 2020 at 12:06am PDT × DSD: You once had an e-mail id called Mahesh no 1, this was to do with the Govinda films of the nineties and not your world ranking at the time in doubles. Lots of movie watching for you at this time or you have already binge-watched most of what is available online? MB: Yes, I’m mostly watching re-runs of shows. But luckily new seasons of various series keep coming up, so there's something to binge on most of the time. Recently I saw 'Student of the Year' and 'Tanhaji' with my daughter. She enjoys watching the classics and I love giving her company.

Exclusive: 'Virus rewriting history books in tennis' - Mahesh Bhupathi opens up on Wimbledon cancellation, life in lockdown and more

<p>Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums.</p>

<p>"It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.&nbsp;</p>


Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic. Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months". The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II. But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote. "Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around. "It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term." Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts. But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums. "It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months." "If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal expecting lengthy wait before tennis returns

<p>Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and no resumption of the ATP and WTA Tours until July 13 at the earliest as the coronavirus continues to cause havoc.</p>

<p>AFP Sport looks at what happens next for tennis in 2020.</p>

<h2>Djokovic, biggest winner or loser?</h2>

<p>-- Before the season went into cold storage, Novak Djokovic had captured an eighth Australian Open and was on an 18-0 winning streak since the turn of the year.</p>

<p>Talk was of Djokovic, now a 17-time Grand Slam title winner, going on to match his 2011 and 2015 seasons.</p>

<p>In 2011, he built a 41-match win streak before ending the year with a 70-6 record and 10 titles, including the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open crowns.</p>

<p>In 2015, Djokovic won the same three Slams again out of 11 titles in a win-loss record of 82-6.</p>

<p>After taking the 79th title of his career in Dubai on the last day of February this year, the 32-year-old proclaimed: "One of the targets is to go unbeaten the whole season. I'm not kidding."</p>

<p>However, with the French Open, which he has won once, and Wimbledon, where he was the defending champion, respectively postponed and scrapped, has his bubble burst?</p>

<p>"The big loser is Djokovic," former world number one and seven-time major winner Mats Wilander told L'Equipe.</p>

<p>"He hasn't lost this year yet, but this virus has stopped him in his tracks."</p>

<h2>Will there be any more tennis at all in 2020?</h2>

<p>-- After Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time in 75 years on Wednesday, All England Club chief Richard Lewis was hoping for the best but fearing the worst.</p>

<p>"I don't think it's unrealistic to say that there may be no more tennis this year," he said.</p>

<p>"But I would like to think that things will settle down so that tournaments can be played sooner rather than later. Who knows what will happen?"</p>

<p>The clay-court and grass-court seasons have already been binned.</p>

<p>In all, 21 tournaments on both tours have been affected.</p>

<p>The rescheduled French Open has been shoehorned into September-October, starting just a week after the US Open final in New York.</p>

<p>Two different continents; two radically different surfaces.</p>

<p>Also, a rebooted Roland Garros now clashes with six ATP and WTA events, some of which form part of the lucrative and high-profile Asian hard-court swing.</p>

<p>The Laver Cup in Boston, where Roger Federer is likely to feature, is another direct rival to the Paris showpiece.</p>

<p>Furthermore, there are no guarantees that the spread of the deadly coronavirus will have stalled by the summer.</p>

<p>"I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," tweeted former world number one and two-time major winner Amelie Mauresmo.</p>

<p>"The international circuit = male and female players of all nationalities including their coaching staff, spectators and people from all over the world who bring these events to life.</p>

<p>"No vaccine = no tennis."</p>

<h2>End of the road for low-paid?</h2>

<p>-- The likes of Djokovic, Federer and Rafael Nadal have all banked over $100 million in prize money in their careers.</p>

<p>However, the world rankings stretch beyond the 1,200 mark where an army of under-achieving and low-paid players barely make ends meet.</p>

<p>Currently at 1,283 in the world is 27-year-old Ksenia Kolesnikova of Russia - in 2020, she has officially made just $68.</p>

<p>"Players lower ranked than 250 will not be able to buy food in two-three weeks' time," warned Georgia's world number 371 Sofia Shapatava.</p>

<p>She has organised a petition calling on the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to provide a financial safety net for the hundreds who toil in second and third-tier events.</p>

<p>But she is not optimistic the ITF will look favourably on her plea.</p>

<p>"I honestly don't think so," she told AFP.</p>

<p>"They replied that their plate is full and they will come back to me as soon as they can. But after that email they did not reply with anything."</p>


Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and no resumption of the ATP and WTA Tours until July 13 at the earliest as the coronavirus continues to cause havoc.

Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and no resumption of the ATP and WTA Tours until July 13 at the earliest as the coronavirus continues to cause havoc. AFP Sport looks at what happens next for tennis in 2020. Djokovic, biggest winner or loser? -- Before the season went into cold storage, Novak Djokovic had captured an eighth Australian Open and was on an 18-0 winning streak since the turn of the year. Talk was of Djokovic, now a 17-time Grand Slam title winner, going on to match his 2011 and 2015 seasons. In 2011, he built a 41-match win streak before ending the year with a 70-6 record and 10 titles, including the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open crowns. In 2015, Djokovic won the same three Slams again out of 11 titles in a win-loss record of 82-6. After taking the 79th title of his career in Dubai on the last day of February this year, the 32-year-old proclaimed: "One of the targets is to go unbeaten the whole season. I'm not kidding." However, with the French Open, which he has won once, and Wimbledon, where he was the defending champion, respectively postponed and scrapped, has his bubble burst? "The big loser is Djokovic," former world number one and seven-time major winner Mats Wilander told L'Equipe. "He hasn't lost this year yet, but this virus has stopped him in his tracks." Will there be any more tennis at all in 2020? -- After Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time in 75 years on Wednesday, All England Club chief Richard Lewis was hoping for the best but fearing the worst. "I don't think it's unrealistic to say that there may be no more tennis this year," he said. "But I would like to think that things will settle down so that tournaments can be played sooner rather than later. Who knows what will happen?" The clay-court and grass-court seasons have already been binned. In all, 21 tournaments on both tours have been affected. The rescheduled French Open has been shoehorned into September-October, starting just a week after the US Open final in New York. Two different continents; two radically different surfaces. Also, a rebooted Roland Garros now clashes with six ATP and WTA events, some of which form part of the lucrative and high-profile Asian hard-court swing. The Laver Cup in Boston, where Roger Federer is likely to feature, is another direct rival to the Paris showpiece. Furthermore, there are no guarantees that the spread of the deadly coronavirus will have stalled by the summer. "I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," tweeted former world number one and two-time major winner Amelie Mauresmo. "The international circuit = male and female players of all nationalities including their coaching staff, spectators and people from all over the world who bring these events to life. "No vaccine = no tennis." End of the road for low-paid? -- The likes of Djokovic, Federer and Rafael Nadal have all banked over $100 million in prize money in their careers. However, the world rankings stretch beyond the 1,200 mark where an army of under-achieving and low-paid players barely make ends meet. Currently at 1,283 in the world is 27-year-old Ksenia Kolesnikova of Russia - in 2020, she has officially made just $68. "Players lower ranked than 250 will not be able to buy food in two-three weeks' time," warned Georgia's world number 371 Sofia Shapatava. She has organised a petition calling on the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to provide a financial safety net for the hundreds who toil in second and third-tier events. But she is not optimistic the ITF will look favourably on her plea. "I honestly don't think so," she told AFP. "They replied that their plate is full and they will come back to me as soon as they can. But after that email they did not reply with anything."

What now for tennis in 2020?

<p>Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty.</p>

<p>“Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany.</p>

<p>“I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation.</p>

<p>“It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.”</p>

<p>The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p>The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer.</p>

<p>French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic.</p>

<p>The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar.</p>

<p>The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association.</p>

<p>“The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said.</p>

<p>He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone.</p>

<p>“They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said.</p>

<p>“Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”</p>


Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports. All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty. “Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany. “I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation. “It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.” The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment. The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer. French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic. The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar. The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association. “The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said. He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone. “They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said. “Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”

Wimbledon will be cancelled, says German tennis official - report