pointed to low COVID-19 vaccination rates, national cabinet’s decision to halve international arrival caps for returning Australians, and Formula One requiring a decision on the event by the end of the week as crucial factors in its cancellation.
Former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett said state governments should have more flexible protocols for international athletes to guarantee the future of major sporting events.He said if Serena Williams wants to come to the Australian Open next year when she is vaccinated against COVID-19 and tests negative prior to flying and upon her arrival, “she should be able to go about the community like any of us”.