OFFICIAL: 2020 Indian Wells Masters called off over coronavirus fears, but tournament could be rescheduled

Shahida Jacobs
March 9, 2020

There will be no Indian Wells Masters this week after organisers announced that the event “will not take place at this time” due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The first ATP Masters 1000 and WTA Premier Mandatory main draw tournament was due to start on Wednesday, but California health officials declared a public health emergency for the Coachella Valley following a confirmed case of COVID-19.

The coronavirus has already claimed more than 3,000 lives worldwide while more than 100,000 people have been affected.

“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.

Tournament Director Tommy Haas says they are exploring all their options and could hold the event at another date.

“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,” he said.

“We are prepared to hold the tournament on another date and will explore options.”

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