Tennis Stars Stranded in Dubai Following Missile Strikes, Indian Wells Participation in Doubt

Dubai, UAE – Several professional tennis players, including Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, are currently stranded in Dubai following the closure of United Arab Emirates airspace in response to missile strikes launched by Iran on Saturday, March 1, 2026. The disruption casts uncertainty over their participation in the upcoming BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, California, which begins next week.

Escalation of Conflict Leads to Airspace Closure

The crisis unfolded after a joint military operation by the US and Israel against Iranian targets. Iran retaliated by targeting United States bases in the Middle East, resulting in strikes that significantly impacted the UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As a precautionary measure, authorities immediately closed the airspace and suspended all flight operations at Dubai International Airport .

Medvedev, Rublev, and Griekspoor Affected

Daniil Medvedev, fresh off winning the Dubai Tennis Championships title – awarded by default after Tallon Griekspoor withdrew from the final due to a hamstring injury – is among those affected. Andrey Rublev is also reportedly stranded in the city. Griekspoor, despite his injury, remains in Dubai as well .

Tournament Continues Amidst Tensions

Despite the escalating tensions, the Dubai Tennis Championships continued with the doubles final taking place on Saturday night, even as projectiles were observed over Dubai . However, the immediate future of travel for players and tournament staff remains uncertain.

Players Await Flight Resumption

Medvedev shared a video update on social media, stating, “Here, of course, the situation is unusual, but the only thing that happens is the airspace is closed, of course. That is, no one knows when we will be able to take off.” He added that players are “just waiting…what will happen next in the next hours, days” . Players are remaining in their hotels, with their belongings packed, awaiting guidance from their embassies and the resumption of commercial flights.

Indian Wells Participation in Question

The draw for the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells is scheduled for Monday, March 2, 2026. It remains unclear whether Medvedev, Rublev, or other affected players will be able to arrive in California in time to compete .

Bublik Successfully Departs

Alexander Bublik was one of the first players to successfully depart the region, reportedly leaving Iranian airspace just before the latest airstrikes. He confirmed the safety of his team via his Telegram channel .

The ATP has been contacted for comment on how the organization will support the affected players.