CORONAVIRUS. Serena Williams will not be able to defend her title in Auckland

Serena Williams will not be able to play in New Zealand following the cancellation of the local event because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Serena Williams And Her Daughter Olympia

Serena Williams has won just 1 title this year, and that was in Auckland in January. The American icon was elated not only for the title but also for the fact that playing in Auckland seemed to be the ideal preparation for the Australian Open to not arrive too rusty to the first slam of the year. Serena also enjoyed her time with her daughter and husband in New Zealand as they managed to engage in various activities such as enjoying the local zoo.

The cancellation of the ASB Tennis Classic in Auckland

Unfortunately, it has been disclosed that the ASB Tennis Classic has been canceled because of the complications of the Coronavirus pandemic. Last month, tournament director Karl Budge was still hoping to find a solution. The dates had to be defined and they were waiting for a signal from the government. Unfortunately, that signal never came and it seemed as there was a lack of communication between the organization of the event and the local authorities.

The government decided to ease the quarantine restriction for the Australian rugby team and that gave some hope for the organizers of the ASB Tennis Classic.

Unfortunately, a solution was not found, and the tournament was officially called the competition off. The good news is that there are still plans for the event to be staged in 2022.

“We know we deliver the best annual event in New Zealand. Today’s announcement won’t change that. We look forward to the return of the Classic in Auckland next year. The planning starts now,” said Budget.

Serena Williams in 2020

Serena Williams Stats info

Now ranked no.9, Serena Williams was supposed to play on the 30th of September. However, she conceded a walk over to Tsvetana Pironkova in the 2nd round of the French Open.

This season Serena Williams has a 17-5 win-loss record. Serena Williams has won 1 title in Auckland.

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