Davis Cup Tie Between Canada and Israel Played Behind Closed Doors Amid Protests
The Davis Cup tennis tie between Canada and Israel, held in Halifax, Nova Scotia on September 12 and 13, was played behind closed doors due to "escalating safety concerns." Tennis Canada made the decision, impacting over 1,500 ticket holders who received refunds.
Safety Concerns and Decision Making
Gavin Ziv, Tennis Canada’s chief executive, emphasized the organization's responsibility to protect people while ensuring the event could proceed. "At the heart of this difficult decision is our responsibility to protect people while ensuring that this Davis Cup tie can still take place," he stated. Tennis Canada collaborated with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and considered intelligence from local authorities and national security agencies, as well as disruptions at other events.
Protests and Opposition
Prior to the event, a group of Canadian athletes, activists, and academics issued an open letter calling for the tie's cancellation, citing human rights concerns related to Israel's actions in Gaza. The letter, which gained nearly 800 signatures, referenced determinations from human rights organizations and UN Special Rapporteurs. The ITF has not suspended Israel, unlike its suspension of Russia and Belarus from team competition following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
ITF's Perspective
An ITF spokesperson stated that Israel has not been excluded from international sporting events or suspended by the International Olympic Committee. They also noted the paramount importance of safety for all participants and supporters at every event. The ITF expressed disappointment with the outcome but reiterated its commitment to working with Tennis Canada to ensure the tie met the standards of the Davis Cup.
Protests Intensify and Other Events Affected
Pro-Palestinian protests at sporting events have increased recently. The Vuelta a España's 11th stage was neutralized due to protests against Israel-Premier Tech's participation. Barclays' sponsorship of Wimbledon faced protests due to the bank's financial ties with defense companies supplying arms to Israel.
Canada Takes 2-0 Lead in Empty Arena
The Davis Cup tie commenced in a surreal atmosphere at Scotiabank Centre in Halifax, devoid of spectators and media. Tennis Canada cited safety concerns flagged by authorities as the reason for the closed-door event. Meanwhile, around 400 protesters gathered near Citadel Hill National Historic site, with organizer Em Bailey stating that almost 1,000 people signed a petition opposing Israel's participation.
Protests and Demonstrations
Protesters marched through downtown Halifax, holding Palestinian flags and placards, chanting slogans, and beating drums. One demonstrator carried a tennis racket with a sign reading "No Sportswashing Israel." The protest concluded with speeches outside Halifax City Hall, with more demonstrations planned for Saturday.
On-Court Action and Results
Inside the silent arena, Gabriel Diallo of Montreal defeated Israel's Daniel Cukierman 6-1, 6-2, giving Canada a 1-0 lead. Liam Draxl of Newmarket, Ont., then put Canada up 2-0 with a 7-6 (5), 6-4 victory over Orel Kimhi. The stark contrast to the enthusiastic support seen at the recent U.S. Open was evident.
Looking Ahead
Three matches are scheduled for Saturday, including a doubles match and further singles contests. The winner of the tie will advance to the 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers.
