A tense scene unfolded at the Fujairah Challenger in the United Arab Emirates when loud explosions and air-raid sirens were heard near the venue, prompting an immediate suspension of play and evacuation of players. Officials halted the match between Daniil Ostapenkov of Belarus and top seed Hayato Matsuoka after blasts were reportedly heard nearby.
The players were seen leaving the court in alarm as a siren sounded at the Fujairah Tennis Country Club. Ostapenkov was leading 6-3, 4-6, 2-1 when both competitors, along with chair umpires and support staff, were asked to exit as a precaution. Another match between Japan’s Yuta Shimizu and Britain’s Max Basing was also suspended amid uncertainty over when play would resume.
According to reports in Express, the Fujairah Media Office said authorities responded to a fire in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone (FOIZ) caused by falling debris after the successful interception of a drone by air defence systems. “No injuries were reported, the fire was brought under control, and normal operations in the area have resumed,” the statement added.
The interruption comes amid heightened regional tensions, with reports linking the explosions to intercepted aerial threats. Although authorities acted swiftly and organisers confirmed there were no injuries at the tournament venue, the incident disrupted the schedule and raised fresh concerns about player safety. Officials said matches would resume only once security agencies declared the area safe.
MEDVEDEV, RUBLEV TO MISS INDIAN WELLS
Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev are among several tennis stars stranded in Dubai after widespread airspace closures disrupted travel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Flights departing the UAE were cancelled following military developments in the region and the closure of key Gulf air corridors, leaving players, coaches and officials unable to leave after the conclusion of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Medvedev, who secured the Dubai title, his 23rd ATP Tour career trophy, will not participate in the upcoming BNP Paribas Open in California. Rublev, who reached the latter stages of the event, has also withdrawn due to the travel disruption.
In their absence, Learner Tien will replace Rublev and partner Amanda Anisimova, while Alexander Bublik steps in for Medvedev and will team up with Mirra Andreeva.
The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation and remains in regular contact with players and local authorities to ensure their safety and accommodation while assessing when normal travel operations can resume.
Reports suggest alternative exit plans, including overland travel to neighbouring countries for connecting flights, are being explored as players await clearer guidance.
