LONDON: Restrictions on golf and tennis were eased in England on Wednesday, with the public allowed to play with one member of another household but the return to action has been met with some resistance from professional athletes.
Professional sport, currently on hold due to the coronavirus, can return behind closed doors in England from June 1.
England footballers Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose raised their concerns earlier this week.
The Premier League held talks on Wednesday with unions representing players and managers.
“The choice to return to training is also a personal one,” said chief executive of UK Sport Sally Munday.
“Every sport is different and everyone’s personal circumstances are different and whilst clearly there are many who are keen to return to training as soon as possible, there are those who will have genuine concerns or personal circumstances that make this challenging.”
England’s Rugby Football Union said it would have further talks with players and staff before resuming training.
“There is still significant work to do and discussions to be had with players and staff before any form of training can resume,” the RFU said in a statement. “Their welfare will be at the heart of our decisions.”
The Premier League is likely to return to action next month as the government published a planner that could see the return of elite sport in England from June 1.
“Our priority will always be the safety of players, coaches and managers, staff, supporters, and the wider community,” said Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters.
