Sam Groth: Melbourne deserves ace summer of tennis after COVID-19, bushfires

After the proverbial really hit the fan this year, Melbourne’s summer of tennis represents more than a sporting event — it’s a beacon of hope, writes Sam Groth.

Melbourne’s in for a massive summer of tennis. Picture: Scott Barbour/Getty Images

Tennis is back and it’s back in Victoria.

We all know how tough 2020 has been — the shit really hit the fans this year. Unimaginable hardship was thrown on millions of people for so many reasons — not just COVID-19.

The year started with the devastating bushfires and the heartbreaking scenes we saw from around the country. And just as we started that healing process came a global pandemic.

The Australian Open in 2020 was special in the way it brought attention and support to victims of the bushfires. Coming into 2021, Melbourne again has the opportunity to be a beacon of hope and unity — more than just a sporting event.

For all that Melburnians and Victorians have endured — it’s been pure misery at times — they deserve this.

Imagine the start of the year without the tennis. It’s a part of Melbourne’s DNA.

The fact we can host everything here is a huge milestone. A moment to celebrate what we have achieved.

I hope this will go some way to nudging Victoria back towards that state of “normal again”. The Australian Open in January is “normal” — this is a step towards “normal” that we all need.

And it’s not just Melbourne, there’s the possibility of the tournaments going regional, which is fantastic not only for the local towns but the sport as well. Athletes have the power to bring joy and happiness to people who need a lift. World-class tennis in regional towns is an amazing concept that harks back to the old days.

And let’s not forget how important this news is to the players.

As it did for millions of people around the world, the pandemic stopped their incomes.

Many spoke out about their financial struggles without tennis. They don’t all earn millions in endorsements and prizemoney.

Knowing they can start 2021 properly, with tournaments guaranteed and hopefully a steadier stream of income, that’s a big deal for them. And for me! It’s not just the players who have missed out in the pandemic — thousands of people depend on these tournaments for casual work so this plan is great news for so many.

Local businesses too stand to reap the benefits. Unlike the US and French opens, the plans that have been floated will see players allowed to enjoy Melbourne and Victoria once they have completed their quarantine. Hopefully their presence brings in crowds — restrictions dependent, of course.

This is huge for Victoria. Bring on the summer of tennis.

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— Sam Groth is a former professional tennis player who lives in Melbourne