Novak Djokovic, the world No 1, claims it would be “impossible” to play the US Open under the “extreme” safety protocols proposed for the tournament.

The men’s ATP Tour and the women’s WTA Tour are suspended until August 1, with Wimbledon cancelled and some tournaments after then scrapped as well.

The US Open is due to begin on August 31. The United States Tennis Association has proposed various ideas on how the tournament may happen behind closed doors, including having players travel to New York on chartered flights.

However, some players have voiced concerns, with Rafael Nadal saying earlier this week that he was not prepared to travel abroad.

Djokovic, a three-time winner of the tournament, has echoed Nadal’s doubts about participation, in particular pointing to the safety restrictions imposed.

“I had a telephone conversation with the leaders of world tennis, there were talks about the continuation of the season, mostly about the US Open due in late August, but it is not known whether it will be held,” the Serb told Prva, a Serbian television network.

“The rules... are extreme. We would not have access to Manhattan, we would have to sleep in hotels at the airport, to be tested twice or three times per week. Also, we could bring one person to the club, which is really impossible. You need your coach, a fitness trainer, then a physiotherapist.”

The Sunday Telegraph