Fans will be banned from the Australian Open for five days from midnight tonight, after the Victorian Government imposed a statewide coronavirus lockdown.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced the move in response to the spread of the UK variant of COVID-19.
Fans have been arriving at Melbourne Park to watch play on day five of the Grand Slam tournament.
However, Mr Andrews said that all public gatherings would have to cease once the lockdown was in place.
He said professional sporting events could go ahead, but without spectators.
“AFLW or … any number of other large and small professional sport events, they will function essentially as a workplace,” Mr Andrews said.
“But they will not function as an entertainment event, because there will be no crowds.
“And the workforce will be the minimum that is needed in order for that to be COVID-safe and safe in lots of other contexts.”
The tournament is midway through the third round, and has been operating with a limit of 30,000 fans per day, split into three zones to help with distancing.
Up until now, spectators have been allowed to sit in their seats without wearing masks when the stadium roof is open.
Spectators have been required to wear masks, however, when the roof is closed on one of the three main courts, or when they are moving around the concourse areas.
Day five to continue as planned
Australian Open organisers released a statement after the announcement, saying they were working with the state government “to ensure the health and safety of everyone”.
“We are notifying ticketholders, players and staff that there will be no fans onsite at the AO for five days, commencing from Saturday 13 February,” organisers said.
“Full refunds will be available for anyone who has tickets for these sessions and they will be advised on how to apply as soon as possible.”
The tournament’s broadcast-only contingency plan will begin tomorrow and last until restrictions were lifted.
“Play will continue uninterrupted on the broadcast, albeit without spectators onsite,” organisers said.
More to come.
