Daniil Medvedev (Image source: Agence France-Presse)
Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev noted that he is among what the ATP Tour described as “a small number of players and team members” helping to leave Dubai, where the war in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruptions.Medvedev’s Instagram account reposted a report on Monday from Russian tennis outlet Bolshy, which stated he was safe and staying at a friend’s apartment in Dubai. The update came amid flight cancellations following his win at the ATP event there last week.
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“The health, safety and well-being of our players, staff and tournament staff is our priority. We can confirm that a small number of players and team members will remain in Dubai after the conclusion of the latest ATP 500 event,” the ATP said in a statement on Monday.
“They and their teams are accommodated in the official hotels of the tournament, where their immediate needs are fully supported.”Medvedev and several others are scheduled to compete at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, where the main draw matches begin on Wednesday.The ATP said: “We are in direct contact with those affected, as well as with the tournament organizers and security advisors.”
“At this stage, travel assessments remain subject to ongoing evaluation in line with airline operations and official guidance. We will continue to provide appropriate support to ensure players and their teams are able to depart safely when conditions permit.”The travel disruption also affected other sports. Cricketers from the England and Pakistan development squads were in the UAE over the weekend ahead of the match which was called off on Sunday.Likewise, young basketball players faced difficulties after the cancellation of the Europa League tournament in the region.Many sporting events have been suspended across the region, including AFC Champions League matches and Qatari League matches. Formula 1’s governing body said on Monday it would focus on “safety and well-being” while reviewing upcoming races in the region.
