Canada vs. Israel: Davis Cup Match to 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 due to security concerns, Tennis Canada announced 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.Gavin Ziv, Tennis Canada’s chief executive officer, called the result “very disappointing,” but stated that the safety of the 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 informed that fans who purchased tickets will receive a full refund within 30 days. A Tennis Canada spokesperson indicated that approximately 1,500 tickets per day will be refunded. In addition, the financial impact of this decision will be assessed, but a significant loss of revenue is expected. 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 any threats were received targeting 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.At the heart of this difficult decision is our responsibility to protect people, while ensuring that this Davis Cup tie can still take place.
Gavin Ziv, CEO of Tennis Canada
