The outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has led to one of the major causality in the sporting world with the cancellation of the Indian Wells 2020. The decision has left many players in shock, especially the ones who were already in Indian Wells preparing for the event. Rafael Nadal also expressed his disappointment at the ATP Masters 1000 event being cancelled.
The verdict of cancelling the event will certainly have a massive impact with many players already training in the valley. Many top players along with Rafael Nadal reacted to the suspension of the tournament on social media. The Spaniard revealed that he is deciding what to do next after hearing the ‘sad’ news.
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“So sad for all that is happening”: Rafael Nadal
The 19-time Grand Slam champion had a chance to reclaim the world No.1 spot at the Indian Wells Masters 2020. The Mallorcan could replace his rival Djokovic at the top if he won the title and Djokovic didn’t reach the semi-final.
Nadal was also set to play the Eisenhower Cup, a $150,000 winner-take-all event ahead of the tournament on March 10. Joining Nadal were the Indian Wells defending champion Dominic Thiem, Daniil Medvedev, Matteo Berrettini, Stan Wawrinka, Milos Raonic and Taylor Fritz in the one-day tie-break-ten event. However, the cancellation forced Nadal to send an emotional message to all concerned.
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“You probably all heard the news. Indian Wells cancelled. We are here and still deciding what’s next. So sad for all that is happening around the world with this situation. Hopefully soon solutions from the authorities. Stay all well and safe,” Nadal wrote on Twitter.
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Also Read: Rafael Nadal Reveals His ‘Only Objective’ as a Tennis Player
The major announcement has raised concerns about if other big tennis tournaments will also be cancelled in the coming weeks. Subsequently, the players will certainly for an advance decision from the Miami Open 2020 organisers so that players can all get home safely.