Tennis stars stranded in Dubai as Middle East war disrupts travel

Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev says the ATP Tour says he is one of “a handful of players and team members” it is helping to leave Dubai as war in the Middle East triggers widespread travel disruptions.Medvedev’s Instagram account on Monday retweeted a report from Russian-language tennis outlet Bolshe that said Medvedev was safe and staying at a friend’s apartment in Dubai. The update comes as his flight was canceled following his win at an ATP event last week.

“The health, safety and well-being of our players, staff and tournament personnel is our top priority. We can confirm that a small number of players and team members remain in Dubai following the conclusion of the recent ATP 500 event,” the ATP Tour said in a statement on Monday.“They and their teams were accommodated in the official hotel of the tournament and their immediate needs were fully supported.”Medvedev and several other players plan to compete in the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, where the main draw begins on Wednesday.“We are in direct communication with those affected as well as event organizers and safety advisors,” the ATP said. “At this stage, travel assessments remain subject to ongoing review in line with airline operations and official guidance. We will continue to provide appropriate support to ensure players and their teams are able to leave safely when conditions permit.”Travel disruptions have also affected other sports. Cricketers from the England and Pakistan men’s cricket teams were competing in the United Arab Emirates over the weekend, but Sunday’s match was called off.Teen basketball players are also experiencing difficulties after the region’s European leagues were cancelled.Several sporting events in the region have been suspended, including Asian Champions League football matches and matches in the Qatar League. Formula One’s governing body said on Monday it would focus on “safety and welfare” as it reviews upcoming races in the region.