Russian Tennis Stars Reroute Travel After Middle East Conflict

Medvedev, Khachanov and Rublev change course from Oman to Los Angeles via Istanbul

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Top Russian tennis players Daniil Medvedev, Karen Khachanov, and Andrey Rublev departed Oman on a private jet bound for Istanbul, changing their original travel plans due to the recent conflict in the Middle East. From Istanbul, the players will continue their journey to Los Angeles to prepare for upcoming tournaments in the United States.

Why it matters

The travel disruption highlights the challenges faced by professional athletes navigating global events and the need for flexibility and contingency planning. As the hard-court season in the US approaches, these Russian stars will look to maintain their momentum and focus despite the unexpected detour.

The details

The three players, all ranked in the ATP top 20, had been competing in recent events in the Middle East. In response to the evolving situation, they coordinated their travel plans, opting to fly first to Istanbul before continuing on to Los Angeles, their next destination. This reroute will allow them to safely continue their preparations for the upcoming tournaments in the United States.

  • The players departed Oman on a private jet on March 4, 2026.
  • They are scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles from Istanbul in the coming days.

The players

Daniil Medvedev

A Russian professional tennis player currently ranked world no. 11 on the ATP Tour. He has won 2 titles so far in 2026.

Karen Khachanov

A Russian professional tennis player currently ranked in the ATP top 20.

Andrey Rublev

A Russian professional tennis player currently ranked in the ATP top 20.

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What they’re saying

“They flew from Oman to Istanbul on a private jet, and from there they will head to Los Angeles.”

— Andrey Rublev's mother (RIA Novosti)

What’s next

The players are scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles in the coming days to begin their preparations for the upcoming hard-court tournaments in the United States.

The takeaway

This travel disruption highlights the need for professional athletes to remain adaptable and resilient in the face of global events, as they navigate the demands of their sport and maintain focus on their performance goals.