Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

'We should not have played' - how tennis was caught in Middle East conflict

'We should not have played' - how tennis was caught in Middle East conflict

Summary

A tennis tournament in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, faced disruption due to regional conflict. Iranian drone attacks hit a nearby area, causing players to flee and the tournament to be eventually canceled. The ATP later arranged flights for the stranded players amid safety concerns.

Key Facts

  • A tennis tournament took place in Fujairah, UAE, amid regional tensions involving Iranian missile attacks.
  • Players heard explosions and saw fighter jets, prompting safety concerns.
  • Despite initial safety claims, a drone attack on a nearby oil terminal led to the cancellation of the tournament.
  • Players were initially expected to pay $5,000 each for a chartered flight out of the region.
  • After the situation became public, the ATP covered the cost of the flight.
  • Some players faced issues leaving the UAE due to visa and luggage problems.
  • The ATP stated their priority was the safety and wellbeing of players and staff.

Source Information