Italian Giorgi denies fake vaccine claims

But the world No.66 was asked just one question about her clinical performance, with attention firmly focused on a controversy back home.

Italian doctor Daniela Grillone, who is under investigation by authorities for allegedly delivering fake COVID-19 vaccinations to patients, recently claimed Giorgi never received the jab.

Giorgi played in her 10th-straight Australian Open last year when proof of COVID-19 vaccination was a requirement for entry into the country.

Nine-time champion Novak Djokovic was infamously deported from Australia ahead of the 2022 tournament after refusing to be vaccinated.

But Giorgi believed she had satisfied all requirements to enter Australia last year.

It was the first time the 31-year-old had addressed the allegations since the story surfaced via Italian media last week.

"I did everything what they ask, the Australia government," Giorgi told reporters on Tuesday.

"Each year we are fine with that.

"Of course. I did all vaccination, yes."

Giorgi said she received one vaccination with Grillone and completed the rest of her requirements with other medical practitioners.

"The doctor has been investigate (sic), and she had troubles in this year with the law a few times," Giorgi said.

"I just did all my vaccination in different places.

"So the trouble is hers. Not me. So with that, I'm very calm. 

"Of course, if not, I couldn't come here and play this tennis."

Giorgi's father Sergio attended Tuesday's press conference, becoming incensed at the line of questioning, signalling to the moderator he would like journalists to ask about the match instead.

The right-hander's best result at Melbourne Park is reaching the third round four times, including at last year's Open.

Giorgi will next play Slovakian qualifier Anna Karolína Schmiedlová in the second round on Thursday.