Canada’s Davis Cup tennis team is facing unexpected challenges amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas, but Gabriel Diallo and his teammates are staying focused. The upcoming World Group I tie with Israel will take place without fans or media due to security concerns, with activists planning to protest the matches over Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Diallo remains unfazed, emphasizing that their approach to the competition remains unchanged regardless of the circumstances. This unique situation, where sports and world affairs intersect, presents a new experience for the Montreal player. Despite the setback of playing in an empty venue without anticipated fan support, Diallo and the team are determined to give their best performance.
Canada captain Frank Dancevic acknowledges the disappointment of not having fans present but expresses confidence in the team’s ability to adapt to the situation. The decision to play without spectators was made in response to safety concerns raised by local authorities and national security agencies.
Israel captain Jonathan Erlich assures that his team feels safe in Halifax and refrains from commenting on the ongoing war. The tie is also facing opposition from various groups, with calls to cancel the event due to the conflict in Gaza and concerns about livestreaming the matches.
Despite the external challenges, Diallo, the highest-ranked player in the competition, is set to lead Canada against Israel. The draw for the tie has been determined, with Diallo facing off against Daniel Cukierman in the opening match. The event will continue with singles and doubles matches over the weekend, showcasing the players’ resilience in the face of external tensions.
