(Reuters) - Playing matches in empty stadiums and following strict COVID-19 protocols has made the ATP Tour "sad, boring and ridiculous", France's Benoit Paire said after he was knocked out of the Chile Open by Danish teenager Holger Vitus Nodskov Rune. Barring the swing in Australia in February, tournaments continue to be played in front of a handful of fans at most. The lack of spectators has affected players who thrive on a febrile atmosphere, while also impacting tournament finances. "The ATP circuit has become sad, boring and ridiculous," the 31-year-old, who last month criticised Australian Open organisers for their treatment of players during quarantine, wrote on Instagram. "Tennis (has) become a tasteless job...I need time to adapt to this pseudo ATP circuit but I will make the efforts to try to just rediscover the pleasure of playing tennis."

Source: The Star March 12, 2021 10:42 UTC