“Limit Russia’s Global Influence through the strongest means possible,” Wimbledon releases official statement on Russian and Belarusian players ban
Follow Us
Daniil Medvedev, Aryna Sabalenka and Andrey Rublev
Wimbledon has confirmed that Russian and Belarusian tennis players will be barred from competing this year. The decision was made in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It means that Daniil Medvedev of Russia, the men’s world number two, and Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, the women’s world number four along with Andrey Rublev, Victoria Azarenka and other Russian and Belarusian tennis players will be unable to compete at The Championship, which begins in late June.
“They will suffer for the actions of the leaders of the Russian regime”- Ian Hewitt
A statement from the All England Lawn Tennis Club read: “Given the profile of The Championships in the United Kingdom and around the world, it is our responsibility to play our part in the widespread efforts of Government, industry, sporting and creative institutions to limit Russia’s global influence through the strongest means possible. In the circumstances of such unjustified and unprecedented military aggression, it would be unacceptable for the Russian regime to derive any benefits from the involvement of Russian or Belarusian players with The Championships.”
All England Club chairman Ian Hewitt added: “We recognise that this is hard on the individuals affected, and it is with sadness that they will suffer for the actions of the leaders of the Russian regime. We have very carefully considered the alternative measures that might be taken within the UK Government guidance but, given the high profile environment of The Championships, the importance of not allowing sport to be used to promote the Russian regime and our broader concerns for public and player (including family) safety, we do not believe it is viable to proceed on any other basis at The Championships.”
The French Open is expected to permit Russian and Belarussian players to compete
Players from those nations will be able to compete in WTA, ATP, and Grand Slam tournaments, but not under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus, according to the seven organisations that operate the sport throughout the world. These two countries were also banned from the Billie Jean King Cup and Davis Cup team events, where Russia had previously reigned supreme.
The French Open, which starts on May 22, will be the first Grand Slam tournament held since Russia invaded Ukraine in February and is expected to permit Russian and Belarussian players to compete.
Also Read: ”Disgusting and Cowardly act” Tennis world fumes over Wimbledon decision to ban Russian players
Stay Updated!
Pritha Ghosh
(414 Articles Published)