Wimbledon gives the green light to the participation of Russian and Belarusian players

the contest of Wimbledon will allow the participation of Russian and Belarusian tennis players this yearas long as he plays a neutral flag.

The third Grand Slam of the season, the only one played on grass, these players’ entry was vetoed last year due to the invasion of Ukraine, resulting in the ATP and WTA not awarding points during the championship and on economic sanctions against the All England Club and British Tennis Federation, which organizes the tournament.

Wimbledon explained that showing support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is prohibited and that the entry of players receiving funds from the Russian or Belarusian state, including companies controlled by these governments, will be prohibited.

In reaching this decision, the All England Club took into account the individual views of the athletes, together with the British Government, ATP, WTA, ITF (International Tennis Federation) and LTA (English Federation).

Also, Wimbledon criticized the “disappointing reaction” of some of the governing bodies after last year’s veto, referring to the penalties, which reached two million euros, by the ATP and the WTA, and ensured that if they were repeated this year the interests of players, fans, Wimbledon and British. tennis.

The ATP and WTA have threatened Wimbledon in recent weeks with withdrawing the license of previous tournaments at the Grand Slam to be held on British soil if the ban on Russians is maintained.

The All England Club also cited one of the reasons for reopening the door to the Russians and Belarusians that in other events outside the United Kingdom, they can compete as long as they use a neutral flag. “We believe that the union between the Grand Slams is very important in today’s tennis“said the club in a statement.

In this way, Daniil Medvedev, current number five in the world and Russia’s best racket, and Aryna Sabalenka, current Australian Open champion, along with other Russian and Belarusian tennis players, will be able to participate in the next Wimbledon championship , which will be held from July 2 to 16.

“We strongly condemn the Russian aggression and wholeheartedly support the people of Ukraine. It was a very difficult decision to make, one that was not chosen lightly or with little consideration for those who would be affected. If the situation changes between now and the start of the tournament, we will respond,” said Ian Hewitt, chairman of the All England Club.