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How Did ATP and WTA Players React to Coronavirus Outbreak?

Published 03/12/2020, 2:45 PM EDT

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After the cancellation of the 2020 BNP Paribas Open, coronavirus fears have led to major concerns over the suspension of upcoming tournaments. The virus has been declared a pandemic and the players are already in a state of uncertainty about what’s next? The tennis world turned towards the sunshine double in the USA as the first ATP Masters 1000 and WTA Premier Mandatory event of the season was scheduled to start this week.

Many players had already arrived at the Indian Wells last week in order to prepare for the unofficial ‘fifth slam’. However, the cancellation of the event left these players in doubts about whether to stay in the US or fly back to Europe.

ATP and WTA players react to the COVID-19 epidemic

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The United States has announced a 30-day travel restriction for foreign nationals from 26 European countries. Furthermore, European governments have reacted by announcing increased restrictions, especially on large events.

Italy is not allowing travel except for work and health purposes until next month, while France has banned events that involve a gathering of more than 1,000 anywhere in the nation.

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Subsequently, top players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic flew back to Europe before the US restricted travelling to and fro from Europe.

However, there were many players who were still in the US, not knowing what to do. On the other hand, the other ATP and WTA players were still haunted by the outspread of coronavirus unable to predict what’s next.

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Let’s take a look at the player reactions from across the tennis spectrum.

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It is still not clear when the tennis season will restart without any further troubles from the COVID-19. However, we hope that the coronavirus soon flies off from the world without harming the lives of the people.

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Written by:

Varun Khanna

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Starting off as a tennis author in 2018, Varun Khanna has gone on to contribute to EssentiallySports in various capacities. After setting up interviews with the likes of Serena Williams’ coach Patrick Mouratoglou, Alizé Cornet, and Noah Rubin, Varun is now part of all major ATP and WTA press conferences and has gone on to pen more than 1300 articles for EssentiallySports. He now heads the tennis and NBA division of the organization.
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