Wimbledon chiefs say ‘no viable alternative’ to Russia player ban

Wimbledon was left with “no possible alternative” to banning Russian and Belarusian gamers from this year’s Championships, event chiefs on the All England Club said on Tuesday.

Organizers of the Grand Slam remaining week announced the circulate in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which means stars together as Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Aryna Sabalenka and Victoria Azarenka cannot play on the occasion, which starts off evolved in late June.

The decision was criticized by the ATP, which runs the men’s tour, and women’s tour organizers the WTA, while Rublev labeled it “complete discrimination” and defending Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic said it was “crazy”.

But All England Club (AELTC) chairman Ian Hewitt defended the move, saying the decision was made after careful consideration, taking into account UK government guidance.

“We have considered at length the options available,” he told reporters.

“These are in effect two options — declining entries or allowing entries but only with specific declarations (against the invasion of Ukraine) from individual players.

“We considered a wide variety of factors. After lengthy and careful consideration, we came to two firm conclusions.

“First, even if we were to accept entries (from Russian and Belarusian players) with written declarations, we would risk their success or participation being used to benefit the propaganda machine of the Russian regime, which we could not accept.

“Second, we have a duty to ensure no actions should put players or their families at risk. We understand and deeply regret the impact this will have on all the people affected.

“We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible. We believe (given government guidance) there is no viable alternative in this truly exceptional and tragic situation.”

As the Grand Slam tournaments are autonomous, possible sanctions by the ATP and the WTA could include a refusal to award ranking points at the event, which runs from June 27 to July 10.

That could reduce Wimbledon to the status of a high-profile exhibition event.

Players representing Russia and Belarus are currently allowed to take part in ATP and WTA events however are barred from competing underneath the call or flag in their countries.

Their country-wide groups have, however, been banished from the Davis Cup and BJK Cup competitions.

AELTC leader govt Sally Bolton said officers were in day by day verbal exchange with the tours, adding: “We might not be speculating on what may additionally or may not occur in the destiny.

“We continue to make the case for why we have made the decision we have made and the unique set of circumstances we find ourselves in here in the UK. They absolutely appreciate that.”

Bolton additionally revealed that discussions are ongoing with the British government concerning Russian coaches and different officials, whilst Russian media shops can also be banned.