The Indian Wells tennis tournament has been canceled over concerns about the spread of a coronavirus in Southern 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 David Agus, a doctor at the University of Southern California, with whom tournament organizers consulted about the potential health impact.
The tournament, a Masters 1000 event that was set to start on Tuesday, attracts the game’s top players from both the men’s and women’s sides and drew a record 475,000 fans over its two-week run last year. It is the most prestigious event outside the Grand Slams and tour finals.
Indian Wells organizers were prepared to look at the possibility of holding the tournament on another date, said tournament director Tommy Haas. “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,” Haas said. Steve Simon, WTA chairman and chief executive, supported the decision, “We understand the decision which has been made in the interest of public health and safety which is the top priority at this time,” Simon said in a statement.
Anyone who bought tickets directly from the tournament may request a refund or a credit for next year, organizers said.
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