February 5, 2021

Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week.

1.) COVID Case Halts Tennis

A 26-year-old-man serving as a resident support officer at the Grand Hyatt for the Australian Open’s quarantine program tested positive for COVID-19. Roughly 500-600 players and personnel were housed at the hotel during that time, and as ‘casual contacts’ must test negative before returning outdoors. As a result, six tournaments being held at Melbourne Park were halted on Thursday, with play expected to restart today.

We will work with everyone involved to facilitate testing as quickly as possible.

There will be no matches at Melbourne Park on Thursday. An update on the schedule for Friday will be announced later today. #AusOpen

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) February 3, 2021

2.) ATP & WTA Governing Body

During a recent interview, ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi suggested that the ATP and WTA should “work united and try and form a unique governing body for the entire sport because we can definitely deliver a better experience for our fans.” He didn’t go as far as to suggest a full merger but believes there are significant opportunities to maximize the sport’s growth and reduce pain points associated with broadcasting.

Read the Full Story

3.) 4 Straight Double Faults?!

During his ATP Cup match against Fabio Fognini, Benoît Paire double-faulted a shocking 4 times, leaving commentators stunned and just about everyone else scratching their heads.

Can someone get Benoit a cap? It’s a little bit sunny… ?

Fognini wins a game without hitting a single ball! #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/XlkTuFctqZ

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 2, 2021

4.) Serena’s Dominant Start

Serena hasn’t competed since Roland Garros at the end of September where she had pulled out of her second-round match due to an Achilles tendon problem. Now, in Australia, she’s off to a compelling start logging her two first convincing wins.

5.) Exceptional ATP Cup Point

Alex De Minaur and Bautista Agut had an impressive 12 shot rally that quickly brought the crowd to their feet to celebrate their effort.

Spills and skills ?

This point between @alexdeminaur & Bautista Agut had a little bit of everything!#ATPCup pic.twitter.com/9ikZOe6z1n

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 2, 2021

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and have a great weekend.