Canada vs. Israel: Davis Cup Match to Be Played Behind Closed Doors Due to Security Reasons
HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – The Davis Cup World Group matchup between Canada and Israel will take place this weekend in a closed venue and without a public due to security concerns, as announced by Tennis Canada on Tuesday. The organization announced in a statement that the decision was made in consultation with the International Tennis Federation, due to “growing security concerns” indicated by local authorities and national security agencies. This measure comes after more than 400 Canadian athletes and academics, including Olympic runner Moh Ahmed, urged Tennis Canada to cancel the match due to Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank.“At the heart of this difficult decision is our responsibility to protect people, while ensuring that this Davis Cup encounter can take place,” Ziv declared. “We were forced to conclude that playing behind closed doors was the only way to safeguard those involved and preserve the event itself.” The match, which will be played on Friday and Saturday, was initially going to take place at the Scotiabank Centre. Tennis Canada informs that fans who purchased tickets will receive a full refund within 30 days. “Approximately 1,500 tickets are being refunded per day,” said a Tennis Canada spokesperson. “As a non-profit organization, we are still assessing the financial impact of this decision, but it is clear that it will result in a significant loss of revenue for us.” “However, our priority has always been and continues to be the safety of people. Playing behind closed doors is the only responsible option that allows the match to be held, while eliminating this risk.” Furthermore, media access to the venue will not be permitted, and all interviews with the players will be conducted virtually. Halifax Regional Police did not specify whether threats were directed at the Israeli team, but confirmed that officers will be present at the event. The Center for Israeli and Jewish Affairs expressed its disappointment at the decision to close the event to the public. “Cheering for Team Canada is part of what it means to be Canadian. However, a small group of extremists has hijacked the Davis Cup, silencing thousands of fans, many of whom traveled from afar, who simply wanted to show pride in their country,” it was stated in a CIJA statement. “Tennis Canada’s decision was made to protect Canadians from serious threats. It is unacceptable that hatred, harassment, and intimidation have made it unsafe to support our athletes in our own country.”Tennis Canada CEO Gavin Ziv called the result “very disappointing,” but stated that the safety of athletes, fans, and staff is the top priority.
Gavin Ziv, CEO of Tennis Canada
