Miami Open tennis canceled because of coronavirus outbreak

Miami Open tennis tournament that was scheduled to start later this month was canceled Thursday because of new coronavirus outbreak.

tournament had been scheduled for March 23 to April 5 at NFL Dolphins’ stadium complex in Miami Gardens. tournament moved re last year from its former home on Key Biscayne.

Virtually all of world’s top players had been scheduled to participate except for Roger Federer, who is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.

It's second top tennis tournament affected in five days. BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, was postponed Sunday, less than 24 hours before qualifying matches were scheduled to begin.

With Miami-Dade County under a state of emergency, Mayor Carlos Gimenez anunced cancellation of Miami Open, along with a county youth fair and all major events at Miami Heat's arena. Two large music festivals in Miami were canceled earlier this month.

For most people, new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Miami Open draws fans from all over world, which compounded health concerns. Last year’s attendance totaled 388,734, most in tournament history. Tournament officials estimated ecomic impact for South Florida at $390 million.

next scheduled tournament larger than Miami Open is French Open, second Grand Slam event of year, set to begin May 24 in Paris.

Qualifying at Miami Open was scheduled to begin March 23, with first main draw matches following day.