Tennis: Kiwi Michael Venus in danger of missing Australian Open due to new quarantine protocols

New Zealand's leading tennis player is in danger of missing next month's Australian Open, after border closures across the Tasman.

On Saturday, Michael Venus is due to travel to Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the year, but as things stand, he's unable to enter Australia.

New Zealanders travelling to Australia in the 72 hours from Tuesday must spend 14 days in quarantine.

That means his chances of both playing at Melbourne Park and collecting one of his biggest pay cheques of the year are under threat.

"If there is a 14-day quarantine we'll be staying here [in New Zealand]," Venus tells Newshub.

Venus' only hope now is that the 72-hour halt on allowing Kiwis to travel across the ditch without going into isolation isn't extended.

The world No.13 was due to link up with compatriot Marcus Daniell for next week's warm up ATP tournament, before joining regular partner John Peers for the grand slam.

As one of the four Grand Slams, the Aussie Open is potentially their biggest payday of the year.

"The Grand Slams are the big one.. definitely a big bonus," says Venus.

The Australian Open begins on February 8.

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