Denis Shapovalov lifts lid on long-term toll of Australian Open quarantine

World No.12 Denis Shapovalov has lifted the lid on the long-term impact of the Australian Open’s quarantine situation, saying “a lot of players are struggling” with mental and motivational challenges.

The Australian government’s border policies placed the most significant restrictions on tennis players since the ATP and WTA tours resumed amid the COVID-19 pandemic last August.

The majority of players in Melbourne were allowed to leave their hotel rooms for five hours per day, but Shapovalov was among those locked down for 14 days when travellers on their chartered planes tested positive.

Despite the limitations ahead of the Australian Open, Shapovalov managed to win a five-set thriller in the first round before his tournament was ended in the third round.

The 21-year-old returned to the court nearly a month later at the Qatar Open, and this week he is playing in Dubai for the first time in his career.

Shapovalov, who will play a quarter-final on Thursday, said he needed regular breaks and new experiences to emerge out of his post-Melbourne funk.

“I’ve been trying to stay out of the bubble as much as possible. After Australia I felt like it took a toll on me,” he said.

“So I came to Dubai just to practise and relax, pulled out of Rotterdam just because I didn’t feel ready. I’m trying to play as little tournaments as possible and sometimes new tournaments like (Dubai).

“For sure it helps because it’s something new, it doesn’t feel like a routine. It’s something to look forward to when you play new tournaments.

“I feel like it’s more interesting because everything is new, the courts, the restaurant, it’s a new experience, so it’s a little bit easier for myself.”

Shapovalov is scheduled to play at the Miami Masters next week but he has yet to register for any tournaments to begin April.

He said the circumstances behind the Australian Open had taught more players to tread carefully during the pandemic.