Andy Murray said he had no qualms about playing the Davis Cup final in Belgium despite the security alert, but added that he would understand if any British fans decided to cancel their trips.
The world No2, and the rest of the British team, arrived in Ghent, 55 kilometres from Brussels, on Monday a day later than planned after the Belgium capital was put on maximum security alert in the wake of the terrorist attacks on Paris that killed 130 people. The lockdown was still in place yesterday as the hunt for suspected terrorists continued, but Murray said the feeling was very different in Ghent.
“It was obviously a bit concerning a few days ago,” he said. “I think once we got here and got into the hotel, came to the venue and saw what it was like here, I think that made everyone a lot more comfortable. Obviously it’s a different situation in Brussels than it is here.
“I know a lot of fans were staying there and planning on travelling. Obviously listen to the right people, if you’re doing that. But here in Ghent, everything seems fine. It’s very quiet. I think it’s a really nice city.
“I hope as many fans can travel over as possible to give us the best support. Obviously understand if people make another decision because of what’s been happening in Brussels.”
Murray’s older brother Jamie, who is expected to join him for what could be a crucial doubles rubber on Saturday, said that not playing in Ghent because of the security situation had never been an option for him.
“I was always planning on coming and playing. Things had happened that made it a bit more concerning,” he said. “But, you know, we’re here. We’re training. Business as normal. Ready to play.”
Security has been tightened at the 13,000 capacity Flanders Expo which will host the final from Friday to Sunday including a ban on bags and backpacks, as well as any food and drink, inside the arena. Sniffer dogs will also be used at the stadium to search for explosives.
Belgian team captain Johan Van Herck said that his team were fully satisfied with the precautions and ready to play in the country’s first Davis Cup final in 111 years.
“I think we as a team have a lot of confidence in the organisation,” he said. “I know when they had to put the work in for the security, there’s no reason and we have no doubts that we will be safe here.”
