Reigning champion Ash Barty pulls out of French Open 2020
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World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty who skipped US Open due to the global pandemic, decides against playing at the French Open 2020. Barty cited health concerns and lack of preparation for skipping Roland Garros.
Barty prioritizes health and well-being
The French Open initially scheduled to start in May, now it will start from Sept. 27 to Oct. 11 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the reigning champion, Ash Barty, who squashed Vondrousova to win her first Grand Slam in the 2019 final at Roland Garros took to an arduous decision of not playing in Europe for the year.
“Last year’s French Open was the most special tournament of my career so this is not a decision I have made lightly,” the 24 year old stated on Instagram. “There are two reasons for my decision. The first is the health risks that still exist with COVID. The second is my preparation, which has not been ideal without my coach being able to train with me due to the state border closures in Australia,” she added.
Queensland, where Barty resides has been quite successful in containing the COVID-19. Hence, it has shut its borders to the densely populated south-eastern states, which are facing a higher number of cases.
Wishing the French Federation a very successful tournament , she quoted, “I now look forward to a long pre-season and the summer in Australia. It has been a challenging year for everyone and although I am disappointed on a tennis front, the health and well-being of my family and my team will always be my priority.”
Also Read: US Open 2020: John McEnroe talks consequences of ‘RECKLESS’ Novak Djokovic mistake
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