The 2020 BNP Paribas Open, which was scheduled to begin on March 9 in Indian Wells, will not be held over fears of the coronavirus. The tennis tournament is the latest sporting event to be to be cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak and measures taken to contain it.
The tournament announced that the decision was taken after medical officials at the Riverside County Public Health Department declared a public health emergency following a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the region.
“… the 2020 BNP Paribas Open will not take place at this time due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus and the safety of the participants and attendees at the event. This is following the guidance of medical professionals, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and State of California,” read the statement on the BNP Paribas Open website.
It further said that the risk is too great in holding a large gathering this size and it is not in the public interest for the tournament to proceed.
Former tennis player and Indian Wells Tournament Director Tommy Haas said that they are prepared to hold the event on another date and “will explore options”.
“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.
The website mentioned that patrons who purchased tickets directly from the tournament may request a refund or a credit for next year’s tournament.