LONDON –
Several sporting events in the UK have been canceled as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II aged 96 on Thursday.
The BMW PGA Championship golf event organizers responded to the announcement of the Queen’s death with an immediate halt to play as many players were still at the course at Wentworth. The course and practice facilities will remain closed on Friday.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said Friday’s second Test match between England and South Africa would not go ahead at the Oval.
Horse racing meetings in the UK were suspended on Thursday evening and Friday as the governing body wanted to “remember her extraordinary life and contribution to our sport and our nation”.
Domestic rugby matches in England and Scotland were canceled on Thursday and no matches will be played over the weekend either.
Tour of Britain cycling organizers have declared the race over after canceling Friday’s stage and two others over the weekend. Gonzalo Serrano, who was leading after Thursday’s stage, was crowned the winner.
The Premier League paid their respects to the royal family and said they were “deeply saddened” to hear of the Queen’s death. It was not immediately said if the games would take place this weekend.
The English Football League, which operates the three divisions below the Premier League, has canceled its games scheduled for Friday night and announced a decision on weekend games would be made on Friday morning after discussions with the UK Government and wider sport.
Manchester United’s Europa League game against Real Sociedad took place hours after the Queen’s death was announced. Before kick-off at Old Trafford, there was a minute’s silence during which both teams wore black armbands and the flags around the stadium were lowered to half-staff as a sign of respect.
There was no music before the game and the digital billboards around the pitch were turned off.
A minute’s silence was observed at other European games involving British teams such as Arsenal, West Ham and Hearts.
The US Tennis Federation held a minute’s silence before Thursday night’s US Open women’s first semifinal match, which Ons Jabeur won in straight sets against Caroline Garcia.
“We would like to take a break to remember Queen Elizabeth II,” said the stadium announcer. “Our thoughts are with the people of the UK today. Remember to be a part of us in a second of silence.”
Rafael Nadal expressed his “most respectful, sincere and deepest condolences” and former England footballer and TV commentator Gary Lineker also tweeted: “Such a terribly sad day. A truly remarkable woman who has served her country with dignity, loyalty and grace. A consolation.” always present in the lives of most of us. Rest in peace, Your Majesty.”
Brazilian soccer star Pele tweeted his admiration for the Queen since meeting her in person in 1968 when she visited the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro.
“Their actions have shaped generations,” Pele wrote. “This legacy will last forever.”
The All England Club, venue of the Wimbledon tennis tournament, said the Queen had carried out her duties “with great wisdom, dignity and charm for 70 years”.
The Queen was the royal patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, who thanked her for “years of service on this deeply sad day”.
Louise Martin, President of the Commonwealth Games Federation, said Queen Elizabeth “was an inspiration to so many, including all our athletes and Commonwealth Games officials. Her Majesty’s vision for the Commonwealth as a diverse and united family of nations will continue to inspire us.”