The tennis event in which Cruz Hewitt was competing was abruptly cancelled after players evacuated due to a security threat caused by drone strikes linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East. The incident occurred in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, where Hewitt and other athletes were participating in an ATP Challenger tournament disrupted by nearby explosions and warnings.
Drone Interception Triggers Panic During Fujairah Open Matches
Cruz Hewitt, son of renowned tennis player Lleyton Hewitt, was among three Australian competitors scheduled for matches at the Fujairah Open before play was halted. The disruption came shortly after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone ignited a fire at an oil terminal approximately 10 kilometers from the venue. Two matches were suspended as a result of the escalating security concerns.
Video surfaced online showing players such as Japan’s Hayato Matsuoka and Belarusian Daniil Ostapenkov hurriedly leaving the court during a qualifying match. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Iran the previous weekend.
Players React and Officials Halt Tournament Amid Safety Concerns
Australian James McCabe shared footage on Instagram capturing the sound of an explosion heard during the event. Hewitt was also recorded reacting to the blasts, with a brief exchange confirming the sounds were captured on video. The ATP subsequently announced the cancellation of the tournament, citing ongoing security risks in the region. The organization emphasized that the health and safety of players and staff remained the highest priority.
“Following ongoing security concerns in the region, the ATP Challenger Tour events scheduled in Fujairah this week and next week have been cancelled,”
the ATP stated.
“Players remain on site and are being fully supported, with accommodation and all immediate needs covered while onward travel arrangements are explored.”
Australian Players Safely Relocated; Broader Impact on Sports in Region
Cruz Hewitt, who holds a singles ranking of 664 and doubles ranking of 743, was slated to partner with Jason Kubler in a doubles match before the disruption. Tennis Australia confirmed all Australian players have been moved approximately 100 kilometers from Dubai to ensure their safety. A spokesperson noted ongoing communication with players and support teams, following guidance from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as well as the ATP working with local authorities on the ground.
The conflict in the Persian Gulf has caused airspace closures and flight cancellations, affecting international sporting events. Hewitt is among more than 50 professional tennis players currently stranded in the UAE due to these developments.
Uncertain Outlook for Tournament and Players in Conflict Zone
The cancellation highlights the broader implications of regional tensions on global sports, particularly for athletes caught in volatile areas. It remains unclear when tournaments like the Fujairah Open might resume or how players will manage travel and scheduling disruptions as the conflict continues. Meanwhile, organizations such as Tennis Australia and the ATP prioritize athlete safety and remain engaged in coordinating support and evacuation efforts.
When you play tennis and they say bombs are arriving…. pic.twitter.com/wODTWzGv5w
— Stefano Berlincioni (@Carretero77) March 3, 2026
When you play tennis and they say bombs are arriving…. pic.twitter.com/wODTWzGv5w
— Stefano Berlincioni (@Carretero77) March 3, 2026
