Picture Credit: Twitter/@AustralianOpen
The Australian Open, which begins from 17th January, 2022 seems to be bringing in one bad news after the other for its fans. COVID-19 cases, injuries within different camps, bio-bubble environment fatigue, and so many players being infected by the virus are some of the issues that the organisers are dealing with . Now, many players participating in the Australian Open have rather chosen to withdraw from the tournament owing to injuries and more cases of COVID-19.
Furthermore, this has forced the Victorian Government to announce fresh curbs, more restrictions and stricter norms to be followed during the tournament for its smooth functioning. As a result, there is now a crowd limit on the Grand Slam as well. The Victorian government, in a fresh set of mandates, has capped all ticket sales to fifty percent for all matches where tickets weren’t all sold out.
However, the people who have already bought tickets will be able to continue watching their matches. No tickets would be canceled or changed which spectators have already bought.
Face masks mandatory for the duration of the event
Furthermore, the Victorian government has also made face masks mandatory for the duration of the event. Spectators will only be able to take them off during eating or drinking. Moreover, all ticket sales currently going on will be paused once they reach half capacity, as well. According to the press release, the organisers have arranged for many family friendly events and activities throughout the Australian Open. A packed line-up of live music, food and wine is also being organised.
The Victorian Government has tried to make sure that the Australian Open event goes ahead as a "Covid-safe" event. With the cases of the coronavirus increasing rapidly in Victoria, imposing these rules was quite necessary, confirmed Jaala Pulford, the Tourism, Sports, and Major Events Minister for Victoria. Thus, the government aims to limit the spread of the outbreak while also ensuring that a historical annual event like the Australian Open does not stop. The ventilation facilities for the event are to be worked on.
With the growing cases around, it will be essential that these curbs are followed in proper capacity to ensure safety of spectators, players, and organisers.