Tennis: Wimbledon likely to be scrapped amid coronavirus outbreak
The Wimbledon 2020 event looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus pandemic wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar. The tennis season would be left in further disarray after the cancelation of the only grasscourt Grand Slam tournament. Here's more on the same.
Spread of COVID-19 the reason behind Wimbledon cancelation
All professional ATP and WTA tennis events have been suspended until June 7. Earlier, the French Open was postponed until September. The Wimbledon event is scheduled between June 29-July 12. However, a decision to scrap the tournament is widely expected, with the world struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus has infected more than 840,000 people worldwide and killed over 40,000.
Talks have been held involving Wimbledon chiefs
Lead-up tournaments in the short grass-court season are also likely to be scrapped. According to a report in AFP, talks have been held involving Wimbledon chiefs and the game's governing bodies. Organizers had earlier ruled out playing the Grand Slam behind closed doors. Meanwhile, postponing the event would also create its own problems.
Becker and Mauresmo react on the possible decision
Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker pleaded for tournament chiefs to wait longer before making a decision. "I really hope Wimbledon will wait until the end of April for decision!" he tweeted. "The tourney is first week of July ... patience is a virtue." Amelie Mauresmo tweeted, "I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season."
Public health is the most important consideration
In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, the club's sites at the All England Club, Wimbledon Park Golf Club and Raynes Park are currently closed. Physical operations have been reduced to a minimum to maintain courts and security.
