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ATP Cancels Fujairah Events, Funds Evacuations as Stranded Players Reach Indian Wells

The tour responded to airspace closures following a nearby drone interception that halted play in the UAE.

Overview

  • Both Fujairah ATP Challenger tournaments were called off after security alerts linked to intercepted drone debris near the venue, with the ATP citing player safety.
  • The ATP arranged a fully funded charter and said accommodation and essentials were covered, reversing an earlier message that referenced a €5,000-per-person charter.
  • UAE airspace restrictions left more than 40 players, staff and officials stuck after the Dubai ATP 500, though the ATP reported the vast majority have now departed.
  • Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev and Karen Khachanov traveled by road to Oman, then flew via Istanbul to Los Angeles, arriving in time to practice for Indian Wells after missing the Eisenhower Cup exhibition.
  • The PTPA offered to reimburse €2,500 per player as pressure mounted for broader assistance, and later reporting indicated a small number of Challenger players were still seeking routes out of the UAE.