Despite the Adria Tour debacle, some exhibition tennis events are scheduled to go ahead with fans in the stands.
US no 1 singles player player John Isner drew flak on twitter for defending the All-American Team Cup’s decision to play in front of spectators, calling its critics ‘Coronabros’.
ALSO READ: Gauff can change the world for the better, says Martina
“You coronabros can stay in your basement all you want,” Isner, a former world no 8, tweeted on Wednesday. “I choose to live my life and play/promote the sport I love in a safe manner.”
You coronabros can stay in your basement all you want. I choose to live my life and play/promote the sport I love in a safe manner.
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) July 1, 2020
The All-American Team Cup is a charity event featuring the top-8 American players: Isner, Sam Querrey, Tennys Sandgren, Steve Johnson, Frances Tiafoe, Reilly Opelka, Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
The event is scheduled to take place in Atlanta, Georgia from July 3-5, 2020.
I’m incredibly sorry to hear that. I, in no way, was downplaying the affect of the virus, but I understand that perception can be reality.
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) July 2, 2020
Unlike the Adria Tour however, the tournament has put into place strict health protocols.
All the players will be tested for Coronavirus and anti-bodies prior to their arrival, the stadium will have a maximum of 450 fans (30% of the capacity) per day and maintain social distancing.
Though it is not compulsory to wear masks, they will be will available on request.
ALSO READ: How Roddick helped Isner win the longest match
I am in no way making light of that fact. It’s tragic. I also believe we can continue on with lives in a safe manner without another full lockdown
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) July 2, 2020
While, on paper, the organisers seem to be following the measures, the spike in cases in the state is a worrying factor.
Georgia has already recorded more than 84,000 Coronavirus cases and 2827 deaths. The state recorded the highest number of cases in a day, 2946, in a day.
It’s not a laughing matter at all. We may not have a vaccine for a while and the world can’t come to a complete standstill. Reality is, we are going to have to learn and adapt to this virus in the safest manner possible.
— John Isner (@JohnIsner) July 1, 2020
“Fired up to play some real tennis in the great state of Georgia!” Isner, currently ranked 21 in the world, had written on his twitter feed. “Thank you Atlanta for putting this on. This will be done safely and will be a great show. Tune in on @TennisChannel.”
ALSO READ: Federer ‘best’ even when losing
Billie Jean King’s World Team Tennis has also announced its schedule, and will be played from July 12 to August 2, 2020 at The Greenbrier “America’s Resort” in White Sulphur Springs, W.V.
Only 500 fans will be allowed in the stadium per day, and 250 if the matches have to be moved indoors.
WIMBLEDON THROWBACK: Roger returns to the throne
