Daniil Medvedev safely departs from the UAE, ready to compete in Indian Wells 2026

Nevertheless, the Russian tennis player will have limited preparation time for the season's opening ATP 1000 event.

Players Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, and Karen Khachanov were facilitated to safely leave the UAE to participate in the ATP 1000 Indian Wells, which commences on March 5th, Vietnam time.

The disruption to the players' travel occurred just hours after the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships concluded, where Daniil Medvedev secured the 23rd title of his career. However, the joy of victory was quickly overshadowed as regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the US escalated, leading to the temporary closure of airspace in some Middle Eastern areas.

Flights departing from Dubai were suspended, leaving at least 41 individuals associated with the ATP 500 event stranded, including the aforementioned three players, along with runner-up Tallon Griekspoor and numerous doubles players and coaching staff members. Although multiple interceptions of missiles and drones were recorded over Dubai's skies, those present at the tournament remained safe. The organizers proactively extended hotel stays for the delegations while awaiting authorities' reassessment of aviation security.

The initial considered plan was to travel by road to Oman—one of the few viable exits when UAE airspace was restricted. Despite a surge in traffic at the border crossing, Oman was assessed to have a lower risk level amid the escalating conflict.

The information regarding their departure was confirmed by Marina Maryenko, Andrey Rublev's mother. According to her, a special flight was arranged for Medvedev, Rublev, and Karen Khachanov, departing from Oman at 4 PM and flying to Istanbul for approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. However, obtaining takeoff clearance did not proceed smoothly. "They had to wait for quite a long time before being permitted to leave.", she stated, also suggesting that the ATP may have assisted with logistical support.

This incident followed a successful week of competition for Medvedev. The Russian player clinched the title when Griekspoor withdrew before the final due to a left hamstring injury, thereby securing his second title of the season after the Brisbane International and his second trophy in Dubai. Rublev was halted in the semifinals, while Khachanov lost in the round of 16.