Palermo will be the center of the tennis universe next week.
The WTA Tour resumes at the Palermo Ladies Open starting Monday.
Murray: More Top Players Will Withdraw From US Open
Will it be safe?
Wimbledon winner Simona Halep, Johanna Konta and Anastasija Sevastova are among the players who pulled out of Palermo.
The 32-player singles draw tournament requires COVID-19 testing of players and staff before they are permitted on site.
Earlier this week, players and staff underwent testing a medical camper, following the protocol created by the WTA and Antonio Cascio, anti-COVID consultant of the tournament.
The tests will be analyzed by the regional COVID Laboratory, directed by Francesco Vitale. The results will be communicated within 24 hours. Players who pass the test will receive their badge for entry to the tournament site. Tests will continue every four days.
Local media reports the official player hotel is not exclusive to the tournament. Tourists are staying at the same hotel and reportedly not required to wear masks on hotel grounds meaning players could be mixing with other hotel guests not wearing masks.
Spectators will only be allowed in the stadium court and will be required to wear masks. Fans will be required to maintain at least one meter of physical distancing during matches. After matches, the tournament says the stadium will be cleared and cleaned.
Photo credit: Palermo Ladies Open