The decision, taken by Tennis South Africa (TSA) in consultation with the ITF’s Covid-19 Engagement Group, follows an increase in restrictions impacting travel to and from South Africa which will prevent the majority of international players from taking part. 

The latest travel restrictions have been put in place by multiple countries following the sudden emergence of a new Covid-19 variant (Omicron) in South Africa. 

“We had to come to a decision to postpone the events for two reasons," said Tennis SA CEO, Richard Glover.

"The safety and well-being of our participating players, coaches, support staff, and match officials is the foremost priority. We also recognise that with the heavy travel restrictions in place, many international participants will not be able to travel to South Africa."

The combined men’s and women’s ITF World Tennis events were originally planned for the weeks commencing on the 6th and 13th December, respectively. The tournaments will now be rescheduled to take place in 2022.

"We will work closely with our partners and all stakeholders to assess the situation and determine a suitable alternative date to host the events as soon as the situation allows in 2022," added Glover.