War Rages in the Skies! Medvedev and Rublev Stuck in Dubai Amid Evacuation Efforts—Can They Reach the U.S. Safely?

Former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev won the men’s singles title at last week’s ATP 500 Dubai event, but due to the escalating Middle East tensions, he could not leave for the United States right after his triumph and is currently stranded in Dubai.

The men’s doubles finalists Heliovaara, Patten, Arevalo, and Pavic; men’s singles finalist Griekspoor, who withdrew injured; men’s singles semifinalist Rublev; as well as ATP officials, referees, and tournament personnel are also stuck in Dubai.

Medvedev Stranded in Dubai (Image: Visual China Group)

Last Saturday, the United States launched airstrikes against Iran, and debris from intercepted Iranian missiles fell over civilian areas in Dubai, including the airport, hotels, and schools. UAE airspace was subsequently closed. “The situation is very unusual, but simply put, the only problem is the closed airspace. No one knows when we can take off, or how long this will last. We can only wait and see how things develop in the coming hours and days. The airport reopening has been repeatedly postponed,” Medvedev stated.

He mentioned that he is managing well under the circumstances and staying calm. “It might sound strange—I get very emotional on the court, but in life, that trait sometimes helps me. For me, everything is normal. I’ve received many messages from family and friends; everyone is worried, but I’m fine here.”

Although flights in and out of Dubai and across the UAE had resumed by the time of reporting, leaving the country depends on having pre‑booked flights. Medvedev and others, having progressed deep into the tournament, did not have such bookings arranged before or after the airstrikes occurred.

According to reports from Marca, Medvedev plans to travel by car with Rublev to Oman to board a private flight, first heading to Turkey or Armenia before transferring to the United States. Oman borders the UAE, about a 90‑minute drive, and is considered one of the lower‑risk countries amid the escalating conflict. Even with parts of Middle Eastern airspace reopening, this route remains the most feasible evacuation path.

ATP Statement

“ATP is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and remains in communication with players, teams, and relevant local authorities.

The health, safety, and well‑being of players, staff, and tournament personnel are our top priority. We confirm that a small number of players and team members remain in Dubai following the recent ATP 500 event. They are currently accommodated at the tournament’s official hotel, with basic needs adequately met.

We are in direct contact with those affected, the tournament organizers, and security advisors. Travel arrangements are being continually assessed based on airline operations and official guidance. We will continue to provide necessary support to ensure players and teams can depart safely once conditions allow.

We will continue to follow the situation and provide updates in due course.”

Medvedev and Rublev were originally scheduled to play in a mixed doubles exhibition this Tuesday in Indian Wells. With their arrival still uncertain, their spots have been taken by Lehečka and Bublič, partnering with Anisimova and Andreeva respectively. As seeds at the Indian Wells Masters, both have first‑round byes, which somewhat alleviates the immediate pressure; Medvedev’s and Rublev’s second‑round matches are set to take place later this weekend.

Another Dubai men’s singles semifinalist, Félix Auger‑Aliassime, managed to leave Dubai on one of the last flights last Saturday. His agent confirmed he has arrived safely in Indian Wells to begin preparations. Bublič left on one of the final departing flights, which even passed through the area during the Iranian airstrikes.

Auger‑Aliassime Leaving Dubai on One of the Last Flights (Image: Visual China Group)

Among other players, Danish star Holger Rune, currently recovering from injury, is undergoing rehabilitation training in Doha, Qatar. Affected by the widespread flight cancellations, he too has been unable to leave. He posted a video on social media assuring followers of his safety, writing, “No matter the circumstances, rehab doesn’t stop.”

The sudden Middle East crisis has also impacted Chinese players. Zhou Yi and Sun Fajing were competing at the Fujairah Challenge event in the UAE. The tournament was suspended last weekend due to safety risks, leaving them stranded and staying at the official tournament hotel provided free of charge. Both Zhou and Sun have posted on Chinese social media to reassure concerned fans of their safety.

Latest reports indicate that the Fujairah Challenge has now resumed. Zhou Yi will play his first‑round match tonight (Beijing time) against German player Schoenhaus; Sun Fajing’s first‑round opponent is a qualifier. We wish all players safety, health, and a smooth journey to their tournaments, along with secure competition.

(Text & Editor: Dato)