“It is a private conversation taken out of context that has unfortunately been released to the media without my knowledge or my consent.
“Both my coach and I are following the protocols designed by the Australian government and Tennis Australia to avoid any risk and guarantee to compete again in a safe way. These are hard times for athletes and society in general.
“I thank all the people who are making playing tennis again possible. As well as all those who fight against COVID-19 every day. The management that has been made in Australia to prevent the spread of the virus is admirable.”
While Mr Agut made a point of directing his anger towards the Victorian government – and not Tennis Australia – the 32-year-old also said he could not imagine having to remain in lockdown for two weeks.
The Australian Open quarantine saga took another twist on Tuesday when Tennis Australia disputed a statement from Victorian health officials that players had tested positive to coronavirus.
Soon after, tournament organisers disputed the department’s numbers, with Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley suggesting during a press conference that some of the six cases connected to the event were not acute, but incidents of viral shedding.
Tennis Australia has also pledged to make special allowances for more than 70 players thrown into hard lockdown as close contacts of positive COVID-19 cases. The dates for the Australian Open, however, won’t be changed.
