Miami Open releases statement about the upcoming event and coronavirus

Due to coronavirus, the first Masters 1000 event of the season in Indian Wells had to be canceled, leaving the players in the uncharted waters ahead of the second notable March tournament in Miami. The second Masters 1000 showdown should go on between march 23 - April 5 and the organizers will give their best to stage the event and host the best players in the world who will see the title and 1000 points. Last year, Miami moved from Crandon Park in Key Biscayne to Hard Rock Stadium, gathering all the notable names except Rafael Nadal who had to withdraw due to a knee injury. Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas all lost before the quarter-final, leaving seven seeds and one qualifier to stay in the title chase.

Roger Federer toppled Kevin Anderson while John Isner prevailed against Roberto Bautista Agut, setting the clash against Felix Auger-Aliassime, the youngest semi-finalist in the history of the event! The Canadian had the advantage in both sets, only to squander it and lose in two tie breaks, sending Isner into the final against Federer who stormed over Denis Shapovalov in 73 minutes. In the title clash, the Swiss ousted the American to celebrate the crown and extend his record as the oldest Masters 1000 champion. Federer will not defend the title due to an injury and we can only hope the rest of the field will visit the Hard Rock Stadium and fight for the title.

"The 2020 Miami Open is moving forward as scheduled, March 23 - April 5. Safety remains a top priority and we are monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely with local, state and federal officials and health organizations in the lead up to the tournament. In addition, we are working with the ATP and WTA tours on recommended best practices and following CDC guidelines closely to provide a safe environment for fans, players and staff." 

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/38CmjmS