Jakarta: Indonesia’s World No. 5 mixed doubles pair – Praveen Jordan/Melati Daeva Oktavianti and another mixed doubles pair – Dejan Ferdinansyah/Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja have withdrawn from the German Open after testing positive for COVID-19 before their departure to Germany on Friday.
Chairman of PB Djarum Yoppy Rosimin announced the news through the official website of PB Djarum, on Saturday. He said both mixed doubles pairs were in good condition despite being exposed to the coronavirus. Meanwhile, their coach, Vita Marissa, who was planning to go to Germany with the players, tested negative for COVID-19.
“Four players were tested positive for COVID-19 on tests before their departure. All of them are in good condition and without symptoms. Right now we are focusing on their recovery process,” said Rosimin.
PB Djarum was originally going to send Praveen Jordan/Melati Daeva Oktavianti and Dejan Ferdinansyah/Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja to compete in three European tournaments, starting from the German Open Super 300 (March 8 – March 13), All England Super 1000 (March 16 – March 20), and Swiss Open Super 300 (March 22 – March 27).
However, for the time being, they would only withdraw from German Open and will participate in the other two tournaments as planned.
“Right now we are still monitoring their recovering progress. If they receive negative results in the next 3-7 days, they will go straight to All England and the Swiss Open. I hope the players stay motivated and don’t give up. The most important thing now is that they can recover from COVID-19,” explained Rosimin.
Right now, all four players are undergoing self-isolation according to Indonesia’s COVID-19 health protocols.
