Canada vs Israel: Davis Cup behind closed doors due to security concerns

Canada vs. Israel in the Davis Cup Will Be Played Behind Closed Doors for Security Reasons

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – The Davis Cup World Group tie between Canada and Israel will be held indoors and without spectators this weekend. The decision was made by Tennis Canada on Tuesday, due to security concerns. The organization announced in a statement that the measure was taken in consultation with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) due to the “growing security concerns” indicated by local authorities and national security agencies. This decision 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 and ensure that this Davis Cup meeting can take place.

Gavin Ziv, CEO of Tennis Canada

Gavin Ziv, Tennis Canada’s chief executive officer, called the outcome “very disappointing,” but stated that the safety of athletes, fans, and staff is the top priority. The match, which will be played on Friday and Saturday, was initially scheduled to take place at the Scotiabank Centre. Tennis Canada indicated that fans who purchased tickets will receive a full refund within 30 days. According to a Tennis Canada spokesperson, approximately 1,500 tickets per day will be refunded. The non-profit organization is still assessing the financial impact of this decision, but it is clear that it will result in a significant loss of revenue. Furthermore, media will not be allowed entry to the venue, 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 did confirm 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.