The Polish Tennis Federation has witnessed a dramatic leadership change amid serious allegations involving its longtime president. Miroslav Skrzypczynski stepped down following claims of inappropriate conduct, including sexual abuse of minors, which were raised during a board meeting and subsequently acknowledged by the federation’s board of directors. The resignation was presented as effective immediately and received unanimous acceptance from the directors.
During the board gathering, it was formally noted that Skrzypczynski had submitted his resignation as president. The directors conveyed their decision with a formal statement, underscoring the seriousness of the accusations and the need for new leadership to guide the federation through a period of potential reforms, investigations, and heightened accountability. In the wake of the resignation, the federation announced the appointment of a successor, with Dariusz Lukaszewski, who previously served as Skrzypczynski’s assistant, stepping into the role of president of the Polish Tennis Federation. The transition signals a shift toward stability and ongoing governance processes as the organization navigates the implications of the allegations.
The controversy surrounding Skrzypczynski’s leadership began to surface publicly when a member of the Polish Parliament, Katarzyna Kotula, publicly accused him of misconduct involving underage athletes. Kotula stated that Skrzypczynski had acted inappropriately toward players when she was around 13 to 14 years old and identified herself as a victim. Her account added urgency to calls for scrutiny of the federation’s oversight, safeguarding policies, and the overall protection of young athletes within the sport. The allegations prompted discussions among players, officials, and independent observers about the safeguarding measures in place and how the federation would respond to such serious claims.
In response to growing concerns, prominent figures within Polish tennis and the wider sporting community expressed strong support for a thorough investigation. Iga Sventek, a recognized player, publicly urged authorities and relevant bodies to initiate a formal inquiry into the governance of the federation and the conduct of its leadership, emphasizing the priority of safeguarding athletes and maintaining integrity in the sport. The calls for accountability reflected a broader commitment within the athletics community to ensure the safety and well-being of young competitors and to reinforce trust among players, parents, and fans.
The broader context of these events includes ongoing examinations of governance practices across sports organizations, particularly those that oversee youth participation. While the initial focus was on the behavior of Skrzypczynski, the ensuing developments highlighted the need for robust safeguarding frameworks, independent oversight, and clear reporting channels for allegations of abuse. The federation reaffirmed its dedication to creating an environment where athletes can train and compete without fear, and where concerns can be raised and addressed through transparent processes. The appointment of a new president is viewed by observers as a step toward strengthening leadership, clarifying strategic direction, and ensuring that governance standards align with international best practices in sport administration.
Additional reporting indicates that other figures associated with youth sports have faced serious accusations in related sectors, prompting broader discussions about safeguarding across athletic programs. These narratives underscore the importance of ongoing education for coaches, staff, and volunteers, as well as the implementation of rigorous screening, ongoing monitoring, and robust whistleblower protections. The sports community continues to monitor developments closely, anticipating updates on investigative outcomes, policy reforms, and the federation’s progress in rebuilding confidence among its members and supporters.
Ultimately, the federation’s leadership transition reflects a public commitment to accountability and the protection of young athletes. As the organization moves forward under new leadership, stakeholders will be watching for comprehensive safeguarding measures, transparent investigation procedures, and a clear, accountable governance framework that ensures the sport remains safe, fair, and competitive for future generations of players in Poland and beyond.