The full list of entries for the Australian Open has been announced and Serena Williams as well as longtime injury concern Roger Federer are a part of the initial entry list, with tournament director Craig Tiley vowing a “happy Slam” after months of painstaking planning.
The coveted Grand Slam is expected to take place from 8th February to 21st of February as opposed to its traditional mid-January ending.
The news bodes well for the tennis enthusiasts as well since fans are to be allowed for the coveted tournament albeit in a limited capacity.
Serena’s record,Federer’s return-
Serena Williams will be gunning for her 8th title in Melbourne after what has been a rough year for the 23-time grand slam winner. High on Serena’s priority list would be Margaret Cour’s all-time record of 24 slams and whatever comes after that for the 39-year-old legend would only further cement her status as the unprecedented GOAT.
There was also a question mark over Swiss great Federer, who warned this month he was in a “race against time” to be fit after two rounds of knee surgery.
But he has begun training in Dubai and was among those entered to play at Melbourne Park as he targets a seventh title.
Tournament director Craig Tiley was obvioulsy thrilled over the entire development
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“There are so many great storylines for AO 2021,” said Tiley. “Serena is gunning for her eighth title while Novak, who often seems invincible at Melbourne Park, is going for a record ninth title.”
“Our own world No. 1 Ash Barty will return to Grand Slam competition, as will Roger Federer as he comes back from injury.”he added.
Fans to be allowed at Australian open-
The opening Grand Slam of the year will be played in front of at least 50 per cent of normal crowds.
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All players must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival, during which they will constantly be tested for COVID-19 but allowed to train for five hours a day in a bio-secure bubble.
“Although the AO will look a bit different to previous years, the safety of everyone is our top priority,” said Tiley.
“We have the opportunity to stage a very safe, and happy Slam, and give the players the experience of competing in front of crowds again, something they’ve missed for most of this year.”
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