All kinds of events are delayed or canceled all over the world because of the outbreak of the Coronavirus. However, the show ‘must go on” in the tennis world and the organizations of the various events are undertaking their precautions. Some Davis Cup ties were played without the fans while in Japan ballboys did wear gloves and they were “managing” the towels of the players using a tray.
The prestigious ATP1000 in Indian Wells is about to start and they are going to undertake the following actions.
The statement about health and safety
This is the statement from the organization: “Following the direction and guidance of Dr. David Agus, Professor of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Southern California, and Martin Massiello, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Eisenhower Health, the BNP Paribas Open is taking action to continue prioritizing the health and safety of the fans, athletes, and everyone involved with the tournament.:
Tickets are refundable
Fas that have bought the tickets straight from the tournament are entitled to be refunded as follows: “First and foremost, any patron who has purchased tickets directly from the tournament may request a refund for the 2020 tournament, or a credit for the 2021 tournament. Patrons can vis www.bnDparibasopen.com/coronavirus to request a refund or credit.”
Additional actions
As per the statement:
“Additional actions include:
• More than 250 hand sanitizing stations have been placed throughout the facility
• Players will be required to manage their own towel on court and ball kids will not touch or move player towels. A chair will be placed at the back of the court for them to place the towel on for usage during the match.
• Ball kids will wear gloves
• Restaurant and food supply workers will wear gloves
• Volunteers taking tickets at entrances will wear gloves
• N95 masks are being secured for first aid and health personnel to be prepared for any circumstances that would necessitate the use thereof
• Organized player and fan interaction will be limited at the tournament
• All common areas throughout the facility will be cleaned daily with an antiviral application
• Coordinating with local hospital and CDC approved testing for all individuals with symptoms
Further actions are being considered and evaluated on a daily basis in order to continue to ensure the safety of everyone associated with the event.”
BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells reacts to coronavirus much more vigorously
Offers refunds for 2020 or credit toward 2021 to all direct ticket purchasers
Requires players to manage own towels, no ball kids will touch or move them
Glove use will be widespread among staff pic.twitter.com/QYj35Wb2nx
— Christopher Clarey 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 🇪🇸 (@christophclarey) March 6, 2020
