Novak Djokovic tests positive for coronavirus after the Adria Tour event
Djokovic, the world’s No. 1 tennis star who should play in Sunday’s final, confirmed on Tuesday that he and his wife Jelena were also positive for Covid-19 after returning home to Serbia, while his children’s results were negative.
In a statement posted on his website, Djokovic defended the organization of the Adria Tour, a four-stage charity event taking place in the Balkans.
“Everything was born from a philanthropic idea, to direct all the funds raised to people who need it. It warmed my heart to see how strongly everyone reacted to it,” the 17-year-old grand slam champion said.
“We organized the tournament at a time when the virus had weakened, believing that the conditions for hosting the Tour were met.
“Unfortunately, this virus is still present and is a new reality that we are still learning to deal with and live with.
“I hope things will get easier over time so we can all go on with our lives as they were. I’m extremely sorry for each individual case of infection. I hope it doesn’t complicate someone’s health situation and that everyone will be fine.”
Djokovic added that he will remain in self-isolation for the next 14 days and that he will have another test in five days.
“Boneheaded”
Since the ATP Tour was suspended until August 14, the Adria Tour started in Serbia earlier this month and both events took place with the fans present.
Eight players who competed in Zadar last weekend took photos in the immediate physical vicinity, posed for photos and played basketball together. Croatian Borna Ćorić confirmed that he also tested positive for coronavirus.
Team player Nick Kyrgios called the decision to host the Tour “head on”, while tennis great Chris Evert pointed to the lack of social distance among the players.
“Everything we have done in the past month, we have done with a pure heart and sincere intentions,” Djokovic’s statement regarding the Adria Tour is quoted as saying.
“Our tournament wanted to unite and share the message of solidarity and compassion throughout the region.
“The tour is designed to help established and upcoming tennis players from Southeast Europe gain access to some competitive tennis, while various tours are on hold due to the situation of Covid-19.”
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