Olympian Moh Ahmed joins 400+ Canadians urging Tennis Canada to cancel Davis Cup tie with Israel in Halifax, citing human rights concerns.
Canadian Olympian Joins Growing Protest
Four-time Olympian and silver medalist Moh Ahmed has joined over 400 Canadians calling on Tennis Canada to cancel its upcoming Davis Cup tie against Israel. The event, scheduled for Sept. 12–13 at Halifax’s Scotiabank Centre, has become the focus of an intensifying debate over sport, politics, and human rights.
Why the Letter Was Issued
In a joint letter, the signatories argue that hosting the tie would be “unconscionable” in light of what they describe as international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The letter cites legal experts and human rights groups who have used terms like “genocide” to describe the situation, urging Canadian sport leaders to act in solidarity.
Who Signed the Appeal
The petition includes a wide range of voices: three UN Special Rapporteurs, two Palestinian women’s national soccer players studying at York University, and former Olympic beach volleyball coach Hernan Humana. Together, the 413 signatories argue that Canada must not normalize competition with Israel given the current political climate.
Tennis Canada’s Position
Tennis Canada has confirmed that the Davis Cup tie will proceed as planned under International Tennis Federation rules. In a statement, the organization acknowledged the “deeply complex situation in the Middle East” but emphasized its role in ensuring a safe and professional competition for players, staff, and fans.
What’s at Stake in Halifax
The September tie will determine which country advances to the 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers. Canada, relegated to World Group I after a narrow loss to Hungary in February, is seeking redemption. This marks the first Davis Cup held in Halifax since 2016, when Canada swept Chile 5–0.
How Sport and Politics Intersect
The debate reflects a broader global trend where athletes and organizations grapple with the political implications of international competition. The letter argues that, historically, sport has been tied to both the dismantling of apartheid regimes and the promotion of national sentiment. For Ahmed and his fellow signatories, Halifax represents more than a tennis match — it is, they say, a test of Canada’s commitment to social justice.
© 2025 Mapple News Wire
