Billie Jean King Cup 2024 Postponed in Malaga Due to Severe Weather
The highly anticipated Billie Jean King Cup 2024, scheduled to commence in Malaga, Spain, has been postponed due to a severe weather alert issued by local authorities. The tournament was set to kick off on Wednesday, November 13, with hosts Spain facing Poland.
However, on Tuesday night, local authorities issued an alert warning of torrential rain, thunderstorms, and potential flooding. As a result, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) made the difficult decision to cancel all play on Wednesday. The suspension also affected schools, sporting activities, and local transportation.
The ITF prioritized the safety of all participants and attendees, stating in a statement: “This decision has been made based on guidance from the relevant authorities to ensure the health and safety of all participants and attendees. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”
The postponement comes just two weeks after devastating flash floods in the Spanish region of Valencia claimed over 200 lives. The ITF, along with the Billie Jean King and Davis Cups, had previously appealed for donations to the Spanish Red Cross in the wake of the disaster.
The revised schedule has been announced, with Spain’s match against Poland rescheduled for Friday, November 15, at 10 am local time. All tickets purchased for the original date remain valid.
The first match of the Billie Jean King Cup is now set to be Japan against Romania at 10 am on Thursday, November 14. However, official confirmation of the schedule is still pending.
The postponement serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of prioritizing safety in such situations. The ITF and the organizers of the Billie Jean King Cup are committed to ensuring the well-being of all involved and will continue to monitor the weather conditions closely.
