Tennis tournament Indian Wells delayed due to COVID-19 apprehensions
The much-anticipated BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, often referred to as the "fifth major" after the four Grand Slam tournaments, has been canceled for 2021. Originally scheduled to take place from March 8 to March 21, the tournament was postponed due to health and safety concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision to cancel the event was made after careful consideration and in consultation with the ATP and WTA Tours and title sponsor BNP Paribas. Despite initial attempts to reschedule the tournament, no official new dates were confirmed as the event did not occur in 2021.
The BNP Paribas Open, held in Indian Wells, California, is a dual ATP-WTA hardcourt event that attracts the game's top players from both the men's and women's sides. The cancellation of the 2021 edition may have a significant impact on their schedules.
The postponement of the tournament may also have implications for the local economy and tourism industry, as the event usually draws a record number of fans. In 2019, the tournament drew a record 475,000 fans over its two-week run. However, due to COVID-19 concerns and potential schedule changes, the 2021 edition may not have the same attendance.
The cancellation of the 2021 BNP Paribas Open comes after the 2020 edition was also canceled due to the COVID-19 virus. This made it the first major professional sporting event in the United States to be canceled due to COVID-19 concerns, on the eve of its scheduled start.
The postponement of the 2021 Indian Wells tournament may cause a shift in the tennis calendar for the rest of the year. The Men's tennis governing body ATP has announced the postponement, but the subsequent sections of the 2021 calendar, beginning with the spring clay-court season, remain unchanged at this time.
Details regarding the new dates for the BNP Paribas Open will be released in the near future as plans are finalized. The organizers are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved while maintaining the prestige and success of the tournament.
Sports enthusiasts and tennis fans were disappointed to learn that the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, often considered the fifth major after the four Grand Slam events, was canceled for 2021. Despite initial attempts, official dates for rescheduling the tournament were not confirmed.
