Russian tennis stars in danger to withdraw from Australian Open, WTA ace already withdrawn

Natalia Vikhlyantseva won't be competing at the Australian Open in January since the Sputnik vaccine is not approved. All players competing at the season-opening Grand Slam in Melbourne need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but Russia’s Sputnik V is not verified by the Australian government. Daniil Medvedev’s Russian compatriot has taken to Twitter to confirm the disappointing news.

“Unfortunately, I will not participate in this year’s AO event,” the 24-year-old tweeted.   “I’m really happy with a level of tennis I showed on a last few events and I wish to play in [Australia] but Sputnik is not verified yet.   "Good luck for all participants and AO team who always made amazing events,” she added.

 

Unfortunately, I will not participate in this year AO event. I’m really happy with a level of tennis I showed on a last few events and I wish to play in 🇦🇺 but Sputnik is not verified yet. Good luck for all participants and AO team, who always made amazing events!🎾🦘 pic.twitter.com/l2UDmUmSF8

— Nata Vikhlyantseva (@NVikhlyantseva) December 20, 2021

The world No. 2 Medvedev is likely to be in Melbourne, as he had access to a vaccine which is on the Australian government’s approved list. However, the biggest question mark for the tournament surrounds Novak Djokovic, who is yet to reveal his vaccine status.  

source - express

Follow us on Twitter!

‘It’s special’ – Rafa Nadal & Andy Murray face each other after 5 years