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Canada Beats Israel in Empty Halifax Arena to Reach 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers

Tennis Canada barred spectators over safety concerns later disavowed by Halifax police, RCMP and CSIS.

Overview

  • Liam Draxl and Cleeve Harper clinched the tie with a 5-7, 6-0, 6-4 doubles comeback over Jordan Hasson and Ofek Shimanov.
  • Gabriel Diallo defeated Daniel Cukierman 6-1, 6-2 and Draxl beat Orel Kimhi 7-6 (5), 6-4 on Friday to set up the deciding doubles.
  • Matches were staged without fans or on-site media after organizers cited safety risks tied to recent disruptions at other events.
  • Halifax police, the RCMP and CSIS said they were not involved in the decision to close the venue, prompting questions about the source of the threat assessment.
  • Roughly 400 protesters rallied Friday and several hundred more demonstrated Saturday in Halifax, with marches and speeches proceeding peacefully.