Russian Tennis Federation president Shamil Tarpischev has criticised women’s World No. 20 Elina Svitollina for asking Russian and Belarusian players to speak out against the Russian military invasion of Ukraine.
Sports stars from Russia and Belarus continue to face uncertain futures after Vladimir Putin's widely-condemned military assault on neighbouring Ukraine back in February. Millions have fled the country, and the European response has spilled over into the sporting arena on various fronts.
Wimbledon officials announced such players will be barred from taking part in the prestigious tournament, which begins in June. It means the likes of US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, World No. 4 Aryna Sabalenka and World No. 8 Rublev will not be playing the grass-court Grand Slam.
