Simona Halep has always expressed her discomfort in playing the upcoming US Open because of the overall situation in the States and the travel restrictions. However, the Romanian sensation has been facing a tricky situation in Europe. The world no.2 is meant to compete at the upcoming WTA event in Palermo. Nevertheless, on Friday the Italian Minister of Health signed a document imposing a 14-day quarantine on all inbound travelers who have spent time in Romania or Bulgaria in the previous two weeks. That would make things impossible for Halep to play in Palermo.
Why Simona should be fine to compete in Palermo
Fortunately, the tournament organization has been extremely reactive to immediately ask for an exemption for the Romanian sensation. On Saturday, tournament chief executive Oliviero Palma sounded optimistic about Simona’s participation to say:
“Simona Halep should participate in the 31st Palermo Open. Following a literal interpretation of the provisions in force, it seems that workers, therefore professional athletes too, should be exempted from the mandatory quarantine. We are waiting for an official clarification from the competent authorities, but we are confident. I reassured Simona Halep’s manager.”
Simona Halep in 2020
Currently ranked no.2, the Romanian played her last match on the 22nd of February when she overcame Elena Rybakina 3-6 6-3 7-65 in the final in Dubai to win her 20th career title.
At the moment, this season Simona has a 10-2 win-loss record. Simona conquered 1 title in Dubai.