Rafael Nadal reacts as Indian Wells is cancelled due to coronavirus

The Indian Wells tennis tournament has been postponed after the health department declared a public health emergency for the Coachella Valley after a confirmed case of coronavirus locally.

The Californian tournament, one of the biggest events on thecalendar outside of the Grand Slams, was due to begin on Monday but will nolonger go ahead as planned.

‘We are very disappointed that the tournament will not takeplace, but the health and safety of the local community, fans, players,volunteers, sponsors, employees, vendors, and everyone involved with the eventis of paramount importance,’ said tournament director Tommy Haas.

‘We are prepared to hold the tournament on another date andwill explore options.’

A large gathering of the scale of Indian Wells, whichattracts thousands of fans each day for two weeks and drew a record 475,000fans last year, was deemed ‘too great a risk to public health’.

With the event having been due to start on Monday, many of tennis’ top players in both the men’s and women’s games have been left in limbo, with World No.2 Rafael Nadal among them.

‘You probably all heard the news. Indian Wells cancelled,’he tweeted after the announcement was made.

‘We are here and still deciding what’s next. So sad for allthat is happening around the world with this situation. Hopefully soonsolutions from the authorities. Stay all well and safe.’

Jamie Murray, meanwhile, suggested the decision at IndianWells could have huge ramifications for upcoming tennis tournaments, saying: ‘Doesn’tbode well for the tour if Indian Wells is cancelled for one confirmed case inCoachella Valley.

‘Broward county (Miami Open home) has more confirmed cases.  Monte Carlo borders northern Italy currently in lockdown. Rome Masters? French Open? Wimbledon?!!!’

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