Global surge in Coronavirus cases forces WTA to shutdown more events

The coronavirus pandemic is sweeping across the globe, leaving fear and uncertainty in its wake.

With the number of confirmed cases each day, it was only a matter of time before nations and corporations began enforcing stricter laws to ensure the safety of their residents. In addition to advocating proper hygiene, some countries have imposed travel bans to severely infected regions to contain the outbreak.

These travel restrictions have affected numerous sporting organizations, with the ATP and WTA also taking steps to protect its players and fans. The ATP recently announced a six-week suspension of the tour due to the coronavirus outbreak. This came following the cancellation of the BNP Paribas Open and Miami Open Masters events earlier this week.

The WTA has also followed suite, they in fact led the charge by initially cancelling a 125K Series event in Anning, China which was scheduled for April. They have now taken a step further by canceling a few more events scheduled for April, namely the WTA International Copa Colsanitas (Bogota), WTA 125K Abierto Zapopan (Guadalajara) and the Volvo Car Open.

The WTA released the following statement;

"The local and national Colombian governments took measures today to cancel all public and private sports events of more than 500 people, as well as impose international border closures and travel restrictions due to the coronavirus outbreak.

As such, the Copa Colsanitas in Bogota will not be held. Additionally, the WTA 125k in Guadalajara, Mexico has been cancelled. We are disappointed these events can not be held, but health and safety will always come first."

The Copa Colsanitas was scheduled to take place from April 6-12, while the Abierto Zapopan was scheduled March 16-21.

Additionally, the Volvo Car Open which was scheduled to take place in Charleston, South Carolina from April 4-12 was also cancelled.

“Due to safety and health concerns surrounding the coronavirus, as well as the travel restrictions imposed on entering the United States from Europe, the Miami Open and the Volvo Car Open in Charleston will not be held at this time," said Steve Simon, WTA Chairman and CEO.

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