ATP Cancels Israel Open Over Security Concerns

The ATP tour has cancelled the inaugural Israel Open which was scheduled to be played in Tel Aviv next month, there because of security concerns ‘arising from the military conflict in the region’.

The tournament was due to be held September 15-21 and would have been the first ATP tournament staged in Israel since 1996.

But amid Israel’s military campaign against Hamas militants in the Gaza strip, ATP President Chris Kermode said he doesn’t feel they can proceed as planned given the situation in the region.

‘‘Ensuring the security of our players, fans and all those involved in organising a world-class event, is our No.1 priority,’’ Kermode said in a statement.

‘‘We hope to be back in Tel Aviv next year. In the meantime and much more importantly, we hope for a swift return to peace in the region.’’

Asaf Tochmeir, the chairman of the Israeli Tennis Association, said he regretted the decision.

‘‘We at the ITA have done everything to ensure a successful ATP event takes place in Israel,’’ he said.

‘‘We have raised sufficient funding and have taken care of all organisational requirements.

‘‘On this occasion, I would like to express our most heartfelt concern for the soldiers as well as our condolences for the civilian casualties. We hope for a swift resolution to the current situation.’’

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