The Wimbledon organization, one of the most important tennis tournaments on the planet, announced that it will allow Russian and Belarusian tennis players to enter its competition under the designation of “neutral” athletes despite the growing controversy over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. that began more than a year ago and has caused the displacement of millions of people in the country.
The information was released by the organization through a statement issued on their social networks, where they announced the conditions that each of the athletes will need to meet to participate in this championship that takes place in the United Kingdom and corresponds to one of the four Grand Slams of the season.
“Expressions of support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine in various forms will be prohibited, and players who receive funds from the Russian and/or Belarusian states (including sponsorship of state-operated or controlled companies) will be prohibited from participating,” it says. the statement shared by the organizing authorities.
This change in the acceptance of the Russian and Belarusian athletes is due to the modification of the directives issued by the British government, according to the All England Club, which organizes the only championship on grass of the year. It is important to remember that in 2022 this participation was prohibited, which is why it has generated a lot of controversy among people who are against the violations committed in the war.
“Last year there was a strong and very disappointing reaction from some tennis governing bodies to the position taken by the All England Club and the Lawn Tennis Association with consequences which, if continued, would be detrimental to the interests of players, fans, the championship and British tennis,” added the text.
The president of the All England Club, Ian Hewitt, assured that this was a rather difficult decision for his board, due to the criticism they know they will receive for this fact.
“We continue to totally condemn Russia’s illegal invasion and stand by our full support for the people of Ukraine, this was an incredibly difficult decision. In our opinion, considering all the factors, this is the best solution for the championship this year”, he expressed.
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