Officials from Wimbledon are apparently in talks with the UK government to exclude Russian and Belarussian players from this year’s tournament.
According to reports, men’s world No. 2 Daniil Medvedev may be barred from competing in the tournament because of concerns that a Russian triumph would support Vladimir Putin’s dictatorship during the invasion of Ukraine.
So far, Russian and Belarussian athletes have been allowed to compete in ATP, WTA, and ITF events as long as they do so under a neutral flag and without playing the national anthem. Due to its independent tournament status, the All England Club, which hosts Wimbledon, may be able to impose a ban on players from such countries without fear of legal repercussions.
Organisers are currently in contact with a number of organizations, including the government and the Lawn Tennis Association, in order to reach a decision before the entry deadline next month.
The All England Club issued a statement saying, “We have noted the UK Government’s advise regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian persons in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK.”
‘This is a complicated and difficult topic, and we are continuing to consult with the UK government, the LTA, and the international tennis governing organizations.’
‘We want to make a decision about Wimbledon before our entry date in mid-May,’ said the company.
Wimbledon is set to begin on Monday, June 27 and end on Sunday, July 10.