Chennai Open women's singles final postponed due to smog and rain
Indonesia's Janice Tjen alleged tournament organisers attempted to proceed with the match despite hazardous air quality levels.
The women's singles final of the Chennai Open was moved to Monday morning after thick smog and rain prevented play on Sunday, November 8, according to India Today. The match between Indonesia's Janice Tjen and Poland's Magda Linette was originally scheduled for 6:30 pm at the SDAT Stadium in Nungambakkam.
The contest faced several delays due to rain before heavy smoke from Diwali fireworks reduced visibility at the venue. While the doubles final was completed without interruption, the singles match was called off after players arrived at the centre court and then left.
Defending champion and world No. 75 Janice Tjen criticised the tournament organisers on Instagram, alleging they intended to continue the match despite the poor air quality. Tjen shared a video showing the thick smog covering the surroundings.
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) confirmed the postponement in an official statement, noting that unforeseen weather conditions necessitated the delay. The final is now scheduled for 11 am on Monday, November 9, which is the tournament's reserve day.
The Tamil Nadu Tennis Association stated that spectators with valid tickets from Sunday may use them to enter the venue on Monday. This third edition of the WTA 250 Chennai Open has faced weather interruptions throughout the week.
The tournament marks the end of Chennai's time on the WTA Tour calendar for the foreseeable future. The event has been reallocated to Manila, Philippines, for 2027 due to the timing of the tournament during the monsoon season and the popularity of Alexandra Eala.