In a video posted on social media on 1/3, Medvedev stated: "The situation here, of course, is unusual. Airspace is closed. That means no one knows when we can take off. It's unclear how long this will last. So, we are waiting to see what happens in the next few hours, or days."

Medvedev (center) receives the championship trophy on Center Court at the Aviation Club Tennis complex, Dubai, UAE on 28/2. *Photo: ATP*

Due to escalating tensions in the Middle East following US-Israel airstrikes on Iran, Medvedev and other players are experiencing difficulties as all flights departing Dubai have been canceled until further notice. Dubai International Airport was damaged by a series of Iranian missile retaliations on the night of 28/2, as attacks spread across Gulf nations and the Middle East.

Medvedev won the final against Tallon Griekspoor by walkover after the Dutch player withdrew due to injury, securing the title without playing the last match. This marks his 23rd career title and his second championship of the year, following his win in Brisbane in 1/2026.

Medvedev's representatives stated they are working to get the Dubai champion out of the UAE. This needs to happen before the Indian Wells Masters, a tournament scheduled to begin next week in California.

Besides Medvedev, other players who advanced deep in the singles draw, such as Griekspoor and Andrey Rublev, are also stranded in Dubai. The same applies to men's doubles champions Harri Heliovaara and Henry Patten.

The good news for Medvedev and Rublev is that they will not have to play until next Friday or Saturday, as they have a first-round bye. However, the travel disruption will likely impact the Russian players' preparation for the first Masters 1000 tournament of the year.

More fortunate than the aforementioned players is Alexander Bublik, who was eliminated in the second round of the Dubai Championships. His flight to Las Vegas departed before the ballistic missile barrage hit Dubai. The world number 10 player was therefore able to arrive in the US early to prepare for this month's Masters 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami.

By Vy Anh