Novak's tour proves ill-advised

No social distancing

The tournament witnessed packed stands during the opening leg in Belgrade, players hugging at the net, playing basketball, posing for pictures and attending media conferences together.

Djokovic organized nights out in Belgrade for the players, with pictures and videos of him dancing with the other participants at his event posted on social media.

"Everything we did in the past month, we did with a pure heart and sincere intentions," Djokovic said. "Our tournament meant to unite and share a message of solidarity and compassion throughout the region."

With international tennis suspended, Djokovic organized the Adria Tour as a charity event to be contested over four legs.

"It was all born with a philanthropic idea, to direct all raised funds towards people in need and it warmed my heart to see how everybody strongly responded to this," Djokovic added.

"We organized the tournament at the moment when the virus has weakened, believing that the conditions for hosting the tour had been met. Unfortunately, this virus is still present, and it is a new reality that we are still learning to cope and live with."

Djokovic's fitness coach, Marco Panichi, also tested positive, Serbian daily Sportski Zurnal reported.

Zverev, Marin Cilic and Andrey Rublev－who all played at the Adria Tour－said they tested negative for the virus but will follow self-isolation guidelines.

"Boneheaded decision to go ahead with the 'exhibition' speedy recovery fellas, but that's what happens when you disregard all protocols. This IS NOT A JOKE," Australian player Nick Kyrgios said in a scathing social media post.

American great Chris Evert also criticized the organizers, saying: "Total physical contact, no face masks, even the fans were without masks. I don't get it."

Reuters