Tennis news – Miami Open cancelled over coronavirus fears

The tournament was slated to run from March 23 to April 5.

The announcement was swiftly followed by news the ATP were cancelling all events for six weeks, adding to Indian Wells which was postponed on Sunday.

"Although we do not have community spread at this time, we want to take the preemptive steps to keep it that way," Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez said.

"Therefore, I have decided to suspend the operation of the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair, the Miami Open tennis tournament, the MIA 5K run, and all major events at the American Airlines Arena.

"As we move forward together during this time, we will continue to monitor what the World Health Organization has determined is a global pandemic. We will constantly evaluate planned mass gatherings as the situation evolves."

On Monday, tournament organisers moved to calm fears that the tournament would be postponed.

Steve Simon, WTA Chairman and CEO, added: “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."

"There isn’t anything more important than protecting the health of our players, staff, volunteers, and fans who attend our events, along with the general public. We are disappointed but the decision has been made in the interest of public health and safety, which is the top priority.

"The WTA, working alongside our player and tournament leaders, will make a decision in the week ahead regarding the European clay court season.”