Top
Querrey 2019
Tennis News

Sam Querrey accused of quarantine breach after positive COVID-19 test in Russia


American tennis star Sam Querrey left Russia on a private jet despite being placed in isolation by Russian authorities after a positive coronavirus test at the St Petersburg Open.

Despite testing negative on their arrival in Russia, tournament organisers confirmed that both Sam Querrey and his wife had returned positive tests on Sunday, the day before the St Petersburg Open first round.

Following the test result, the organisers urged the family to isolate together at their hotel and the World No 49 was withdrawn from the tournament with immediate effect.

In a statement, the tournament stated that the American refused a doctor’s examination on Monday at their hotel, saying that his baby son was asleep, with the family leaving before the second examination the following day.

“Sam Querrey, as the hotel’s security cameras identified, left the hotel together with his family at 5:45am on October 13 without informing the reception service”, said the tournament representatives.

“He left Russia with his family on a private plane.”

Following this statement, the ATP tour confirmed that they are currently investigating the incident, but did not mention Querrey specifically.

“The ATP is aware of an incident regarding a player’s serious breach of protocol relating to Covid-19 at this week’s St Petersburg Open,” the tour said.

“Adhering to health and safety protocols is critical to ensure events take place safely and within the guidelines established by local authorities.  In accordance with ATP’s Code of Conduct, we are taking this matter extremely seriously and an investigation is underway.”

The ATP’s code of conduct suggests that the American No 5 could be suspended for up to three years if the breach of health and safety protocols is deemed as a ‘serious offence’, with Querrey also facing a fine of up to $100,000.

As of yet, there has been no immediate comment from a spokesperson for Querrey.


By
0

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.