The ongoing coronavirus outbreak has claimed its biggest casualty in the world of tennis with the prestigious BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells being suspended for the first time in its history.
A day before the qualifying rounds was set to get underway, a public health emergency was declared in Coachella Valley following a case of the virus in the area. Which is also known as Covid-19. Organizers took the decision to postpone the tournament following guidance from medical professionals, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and State of California.
“There is too great a risk, at this time, to the public health of the Riverside County area in holding a large gathering of this size,” said Dr. David Agus, Professor of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Southern California. “It is not in the public interest of fans, players and neighboring areas for this tournament to proceed. We all have to join together to protect the community from the coronavirus outbreak.”
The decision will have a massive impact with many players already in the region training. Indian Wells is one of the biggest events to take place outside of the grand slam tournaments. Last year a record 475,000 tickets were sold over a two-week period. Categorised as a Masters 1000 event for the men and a Premier Mandatory for the women, the combined event has been held annually since 1989. Although a men’s tournament was first held back in 1974.
“We are very disappointed that the tournament will not take place, but the health and safety of the local community, fans, players, volunteers, sponsors, employees, vendors, and everyone involved with the event is of paramount importance,” said Tournament Director Tommy Haas. “We are prepared to hold the tournament on another date and will explore options.”
There has been more than 100,000 cases of Coronavirus around the world that has resulted in numerous countries declaring national emergencies. In America specifically, there has been an estimated 500 cases and 21 deaths caused by the virus. However, the figure is still significantly less than the worst hit European country of Italy where there has been over 7000 infections and 366 deaths, according to latest figures.
Steve Simon, who is the head of the WTA, said that organisers at Indian Wells looked at numerous options. Including playing matches behind closed doors. Two governing bodies of the sport, the WTA and ATP, recently announced ‘precautionary health measures’ to combat the threat of Covid-19. Speaking with the New York Times, Simon admits he is unsure if other events will be affected.
“It is too soon to speculate about what will happen to other tournaments that follow. We will continue to closely monitor the situation. Health and safety will always come first.” He told The Times.
‘So sad’
Commonly known as the ‘fifth slam,’ many top names in the world of tennis have already reacted to the suspension of the tournament on social media. World No.2 Rafael Nadal has said he is deciding what to do next after describing the situation as ‘sad.’ The Spaniard is hoping that the threat post Covid-19 will not affect the Olympic Games where he is targeting a gold medal.
“You probably all heard the news. Indian Wells cancelled. We are here and still deciding what’s next. So sad for all that is happening around the world with this situation. Hopefully soon solutions from the authorities. Stay all well and safe.” Nadal wrote on social media.
Nadal was in with a chance of reclaiming the world No.1 spot in Indian Wells if he won the title and rival Novak Djokovic didn’t reach the semi-final.
World No.13 Diego Schwartzman has called for more information to be provided about tournaments in the affected areas. After this month, the tennis tour moves to Europe with numerous tournaments set to take place in Monte Carlo, Spain, Italy and France.
“The situation is completely understandable. The way to report it leaves much to be desired. There should be more information for upcoming tournaments that are also in the affected cities and countries.” The Argentine said.
Coco Gauff, who is the youngest women in the top 100, was set to play in the tournament for the first time in her career. The teenager was another player to say they were ‘sad’ to hear about the decision.
“I was so excited to make my debut in IW, but safety is always the no.1 priority. Stay safe.” Gauff wrote.
On the other hand, some players have questioned why the decision has been made so late. The women’s qualifying draw was scheduled to start on Monday.
Wtf? @WTA day before tournament starts? Everyone is here already?? https://t.co/P73tMRFpPi
— Alison Van Uytvanck (@AlisonVanU) March 9, 2020
According to journalist Christopher Clarey from The New York Times, players already at the venue will still be allowed to train there over the coming days.
