In sports notable for globe-trotting, Australia’s entry requirements make for a significant competitive liability
For three decades, Kelly Slater has dominated
Australian waves. He first rung the iconic Bell’s Beach bell in 1994, and then again in 2006, 2008 and 2010. On six occasions he has triumphed in competition on the Gold Coast. On his way to winning a record 11 world titles, famous breaks across Australia have often provided an early season launch pad for the
American star.
Perhaps never again. The World Surf League has recently warned surfers that remaining unvaccinated ahead of the 2022 season would pose “significant challenges” and may see them prohibited from “entering certain countries if they are not fully vaccinated”. At the top of that list is Australia, where the WSL is expected to head in April for events at Bells Beach in Victoria and the Margaret River in Western Australia. While the nation’s entry conditions for non-residents have yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated – as with the
Australian Open – that unvaccinated athletes will either be banned or face strict quarantine requirements.