Latvian duo reprimanded by own Federation for playing with Russian partners in Doubles as formal investigation launched

Latvian female tennis players, Daria Semenistaja and Danijela Wismana, are currently facing scrutiny for their decision to partner with Russian players.

Latvian duo reprimanded by own Federation for playing with Russian partners in Doubles as formal investigation launched

Danijela Wismana and Daria Semenistaja (Image via Kurir)

The impact of the Ukraine-Russia war has been far-reaching, affecting various sectors worldwide, including sports. Tennis, in particular, has not been spared from the consequences, as players prioritize their nation above all else. The tensions have led to instances where players refuse to shake hands or even result in certain countries being excluded from competitions.

In the current war climate, Latvia, a nation vehemently opposing Russia’s misuse of power, has faced a peculiar situation in tennis. Two Latvian female players, Danijela Wismana and Daria Semenistaja, participated in doubles matches with Russian partners. This decision did not sit well with the Latvian federation. Danijela Wismana partnered with Daria Astahova in Germany and secured victory in the tournament. Meanwhile, Daria Semenistaja teamed up with Sofia Lansere in an ITF event.

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The General Secretary of the Latvian Olympics committee expressed his concern and stance on the matter, stating, “The athlete himself chooses who he will play with. Decisions must carry responsibility. The Tennis Association has already called the tennis players with a question about their partners. We will wait for their explanation. There will also be discussions with the Tennis Association on how to act in this situation.”

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. Clearly dissatisfied with the scenario, the secretary made it evident that the Federation will take necessary actions to deal with the matter accordingly.

Related: WTA clarifies its stance after Czech Republic DEPORTS Russian player as Prague Open bans Belarusians as well

Playing with Russians a bigger problem for Daria Semenistaja than Danijela Wismana

Darja Semenistaja
Darja Semenistaja (Credits: Tennis World)

The Latvian Olympics committee expressed their displeasure with the Latvian tennis duo, Semenistaja and Wismana, for playing with Russian partners. However, they clarified that the repercussions of their actions would not be the same for both women. The secretary of the Olympics committee pointed out that the focus of concern is more on Daria Semenistaja.

He said, “Since they both represent Latvia, this is not so much about Daniela Vismane as it is about Daria Semenistaja.”

Given Daria Semenistaja’s rising ranking in the WTA list, currently at 150 and approaching position 100, she is on the brink of qualifying for the Olympics next year. The Secretary of the Latvian Olympics committee expressed concern about this critical moment in her career and emphasized that any offense could be detrimental to her qualification chances. “She is already 150 on the WTA list and is approaching position 100, which is also a chance to qualify for the Olympics next year,” he said.

For the penalty for their actions, it remains uncertain at this point, but both players, especially Semenistaja, would undoubtedly hope for a lenient outcome.

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