The Miami Open would consider moving if it does not get court approval to upgrade its facilities, according to the tournament director.
The tournament received government approval for construction improvements to the site of the two-week event, but was blocked by a court order sought by private inidivduals that protested some of the changes, including the removal of some green clay courts. Another court hearing is scheduled on the issue.
"We love Miami, the community has been good to us and we will stay here as long as we can," Adam Barett, the tournament director, told the Miami Herald. "However, it's about supply and demand... Some of the infrastructure is not in keeping with other facilities, and every day we don't do something other facilities are improving."
The IMG-owned event has been criticized, including by some players, for not maintaining and improving its once top-notch facility. The tournament unveiled plans for an upgrato the stadium and grounds de a few years ago, but has run into repeated restrictions regarding constrution from various corners.
Other interested locations named by the tournament director were Orlando, where the USTA is building a 100-court facility, and other cities that have large events like Dubai, Doha, Beijing, Shanghai and Singapore.
"We're not making threats," he said, but added, "There are other cities that would love to get this tournament from Miami."
Any change in location would have to be approved by the ATP and WTA tours.