The ongoing Australian Open in Melbourne will continue as planned despite five-day lockdown imposed by the Victorian government to contain a new coronavirus outbreak.

The government has announced a five-day lockdown in the state commencing at 11:59 pm (local time) on Friday. The tournmaent will continue as planned but without spectators during the lockdown. In a statement, Australian Open said, "We are notifying ticketholders, players and staff that there will be no fans onsite at the AO for five days, commencing from Saturday 13 February. Full refunds will be available for anyone who has tickets for these sessions and they will be advised on how to apply as soon as possible."  However, sessions on Friday will continue as planned with "COVID Safe protocols" in place.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews on Friday confirmed Melbourne would be locked down from midnight. Sydney Morning Herald quoted Andrews as saying, "AFLW or that event or any number of other large and small professional sports events, they will function essentially as a workplace." He further added that they will not function as an entertainment event, because there will be no crowds.

Also Read: 

Australian Open: Serena Williams progressed to fourth round with 90th win

Three men's Cricket World Cup League 2 series postponed

Bengaluru FC appoint Marco Pezzaiuoli as new head coach