Tennis-BJK Cup opening day postponed due to extreme weather alert in Spain

MALAGA, Spain (Reuters) -The Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Malaga which were due to begin on Wednesday were postponed after Spanish authorities issued a red weather alert for extreme rain and flooding in parts of the country, the International Tennis Federation said.

Two weeks after the worst floods in Spain's modern history killed more than 200 people, thousands have been evacuated in the Costa del Sol region of southern Spain as the new weather front is expected to bring torrential rain and low temperatures.

"Due to a severe weather alert issued by local and regional authorities, the 2024 BJK Cup Finals first round tie between Spain and Poland, originally scheduled for today, November 13 at 5 PM, has been postponed. The tie will now take place on Friday, November 15, starting at 10 AM," the ITF said in a statement on Wednesday.

"This decision has been made based on guidance from the relevant authorities to ensure the health and safety of all participants and attendees. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation."

Hosts Spain were scheduled to begin the tournament against Iga Swiatek's Poland as twelve teams assembled in Andalusia to battle for the title won last year for the first time by Canada.

Later on Wednesday the ITF confirmed that Thursday's schedule would go ahead as planned although they would closely monitor weather forecasts.

"After a thorough site inspection by our technical and security teams, we are pleased to confirm that the 2024 BJK Cup Finals first-round tie between Japan and Romania will proceed on Thursday, November 14, starting at 12:00 PM and Slovakia versus USA first round tie will take place not before 5:00 PM," a statement read.

"Please be aware that local authorities have advised the red alert will be lifted at 8am tomorrow. We continue to closely monitor weather conditions and will provide updates, as necessary."

The last couple of days of the BJK Cup would overlap with the men's Davis Cup Finals in the same venue next week, when Spanish great Rafael Nadal is expected to play his last tournament before retiring.

(Reporting by Fernando Kallas; additional reporting by Martyn HermanEditing by Christian Radnedge and Toby Davis)