“This is not enough, every Russian is responsible” Alexandr Dolgopolov demands a ban on all Russian athletes
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Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Alexandr Dolgopolov
Former World No. 13 on the ATP Tour, Alexandr Dolgopolov is one of the many Ukrainian civilians who enlisted in the army to join the forces in the attempt to defend their country against the Russian attempt to invade the country that has started a bloody war in Ukraine since the 24th of February 2022 and has torn the country completely.
Alexandr was in Turkey when the war began but he felt it was his duty to join the forces and help in any way possible in defending his country and not let it fall at the hands of the Russian in a war that has now been going on for almost a month and has already caused a lot of casualties in both camps with Ukraine seeing the deaths of their civilians as well.
Amidst this, the sporting world has also taken steps towards showing their support to Ukraine and as a result, they have banned Russian federations. Tennis has also adopted a similar pattern and all Russian players have been stripped of having their flag next to them as the Russian Tennis Federation is suspended and they are now called ‘neutral athletes’.
“Letting them play just by saying a few words that they are against war, I don’t believe this is enough. I know all those guys personally. I even played Daniil when I was playing. They are nice guys but no offence to them, I believe Russia should be blocked from any participant in any sport, in any culture. I think every Russian is responsible for their government and their president.
“Just being neutral, taking away their flag, we know that is not changing anything. And even the sanctions that are happening now, even the destroyed economics it is not enough for [Russian President Vladimir Putin] to stop,” said Dolgopolov in his recent interview with BBC calling for a stricter punishment.
Alexandr Dolgopolov stationed in Kyiv currently
Having returned from Turkey to fight for his nation, Alexandr underwent basic arms training if need be and the player-turned-solider is believed to be in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv from where he has spoken with many international news channels. Although he is not at the front currently, the player has spoken openly that he isn’t afraid to ‘Kill and Die‘.
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Sarthak Shitole
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