2023 Sofia Open won't take place after all as Arena Sofia not ready for use

The 2023 edition of the Sofia Open will not be organized because of the unavailability of the arena.

The competition was supposed to be organised from November 4-11 but it will not take place as the venue is not available whereas there are no other suitable venues available in the other cities as well.

The Bulgarian Tennis Federation announced a lengthy statement on their official website where they stated the reasons why the competition will not take place.

“The Bulgarian Tennis Federation announces that due to circumstances beyond its control, it was forced to refuse hosting the ATP 250 Sofia Open, scheduled for November 4-11,” read the statement. “As a result of the martial law declared in Israel, the Association of Professional Tennis Players (ATR) approached the BFT with a proposal that Sofia replace Tel Aviv as the organizer of the tournament.

“In a short time, the federation managed to secure the necessary permits, but despite the efforts, finding an adequate hall for the holding of a world-scale event turned out to be impossible.

“The BFT thanks the numerous figures from the state administration who came to help in the organization of the household. Unfortunately, the dates of the possible run-off in the local elections did not allow "Arena Sofia" to once again become a home for thousands of tennis fans.

“The fact that the ATP turned to Bulgaria as the first choice to host this prestigious tournament is a positive sign of the confidence and faith in the capabilities of the BFT. The ATP's decision is a clear message that in the coming years, Bulgaria will once again receive the right to be part of the men's professional tour calendar through the Sofia Open.”