Dimitrov, Coric get coronavirus after 'reckless' charity event | News | Al Jazeera

Top tennis players Grigor Dimitrov and Borna Coric have tested positive for the coronavirus after taking part in a charity event organised by top-ranked men's player Novak Djokovic.

Bulgarian Dimitrov pulled out of the regional exhibition tournament - which had sparked criticism for lack of safety precautions - in Croatia on Saturday following his opening singles match against Croatian Coric, after feeling unwell.

The event's Sunday final was cancelled as a result.

"I want to ... let my fans and friends know that I tested positive ... for COVID-19," Dimitrov wrote on Instagram on Sunday.

"I am so sorry for any harm I might have caused ... Thanks for your support and please stay safe and healthy."

Coric, who beat Dimitrov handily on Saturday, revealed on Monday that he had tested positive for COVID-19 as well, but was feeling well and did not have any symptoms. 

Fans who had gathered to watch the final between Djokovic and Russia's Andrey Rublev on Sunday broke into jeers as the cancellation was announced courtside.

"Unfortunately, we had to make the decision as we don't want anybody else to catch the virus," said Goran Ivanisevic, director of the tour's Zadar leg and Djokovic's coach, who made the announcement.

Djokovic's younger brother Djordje, the director of the series, said everyone who has been in contact with Dimitrov would be tested for COVID-19.

"After receiving the news, we took all the measures stipulated by the Croatian government and everyone who has had any contact with Grigor will be tested," he said in a courtside interview on Sunday.

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