Elina Svitolina: Russians who oppose war ‘should play Wimbledon’

Elina Svitolina believes that Russian and Belarusian players who speak out against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine “should be permitted” to compete at Wimbledon.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) announced on Wednesday that players from the two countries will not be allowed to compete in this year’s competition.

The ATP and WTA governing bodies both called the judgment “unfair.”

“We don’t want them outright banned,” Svitolina told a foreign news channel.

“It is the correct thing to ban players if they do not speak out against the Russian regime.”

We simply want them to express their support for us and the rest of the world, as well as the Russian government. This, in my opinion, is the most important issue.

“If they didn’t choose this government and didn’t vote for it, it’s only right that they be allowed to participate and compete.”

Svitolina expressed her dissatisfaction with the governing bodies’ response to Wimbledon’s decision, claiming that they had not moved “as quickly as we wanted.”

She issued a lengthy statement on Wednesday, urging them to take a tougher approach against Russian and Belarussian sportsmen.

“We can see that Russian citizens have been sanctioned. Tennis players shouldn’t be any different. I don’t believe they are correct “she stated

Svitolina stated her emotions are “up and down” and tennis is no longer her “primary focus” because her friends and family are still in Ukraine.

She stated, “Many Russian players are capable of more. I can count on one hand the number of Russian and Belarusian players who have inquired about my well-being, my family, and whether everyone is secure.”

“That is why I am saddened by the situation. Some people, in my opinion, should do a little more than they have. It’s enigmatic.”

“It’s quite unfortunate how Russian and Belarussian players have behaved. We’re coworkers who see one other once a week, so it’s surprising to see such a drastic change so quickly”, she added.