The knock-on effect of the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States of America (USA) has been massively felt by the sport. As such, a tense scene emerged at the Fujairah Open match in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as loud explosions were heard near the venue, with Belarus’Â Daniil Ostapenkov and Japan’s Hayato Matsuoka facing one another.
Players quickly leave the Tennis court as play suspended immediately
In a video surfaced on social media, players, chair umpires and the support staff were seen leaving the court as loud explosions were heard at the Fujairah Tennis Country Club. The moment occurred as Ostapenkov was leading 6-3, 4-6, 2-1 and everyone left the court. Another match which was scheduled between Japan’s Yuta Shimizu and Britain’s Max Basing was also suspended as uncertainties loomed over whether it would take place.
Here’s the video:
I’ve watched a lot of challenger tennis. This is the scariest thing I’ve seen on court pic.twitter.com/yckUehRnkS
— RacketRisk (@RacketRisk) March 3, 2026
According to reports, authorities acted swiftly to a fire Fujairah Oil Industry Zone (FOIZ), triggered by a falling debris following the successful of interception of a drone by air defence systems. Due to the authorities acting well and rapidly, no injuries were reported either.
Daniil Medvedev and Audrey Rublev set to miss Indian Wells
Meanwhile, the escalating tensions in West Asia and the Middle East has resulted in widespread airspace disclosures, notably the Dubai Airport, which is among the busiest. Hence, Russian Tennis stars in Daniil Medvedev and Audrey Rublev will reportedly miss The Indian Wells, beginning on March 4th in California as they are stranded in Dubai.
Medvedev had recently captured his 23rd ATP Tour career trophy, will be replaced by Alexander Bublik. Learner Tien will play the tournament in place of Rublev. The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) recently issued a statement that they are closely monitoring the developing situation and will remain in contact with the players and local authorities to ensure their safety.
Also Read: Laureus World Sports Awards 2026: Indian Women’s Cricket Team Nominated For World Team of The Year
