A Ukrainian tennis player, Lesya Tsurenko, has voiced strong criticism of Steve Simon, the head of the Women’s Tennis Association, over his shifting stance on support for Russia.
“A year ago, Simon stated that sanctions would be imposed on players who support Russia’s actions. Then, a year later, he indicated that backing what is happening is acceptable. That reversal stunned me and I could not move past it.”
Tsurenko added that the WTA and the Olympic Committee tend to view the sport through the lens of Russian and Belarusian interests, while the rights of Ukrainians are largely overlooked.
Historically, Russian tennis players competed under neutral flags at many international events. Wimbledon 2022 was the only major tournament that Russians missed, and their return this year was noted.
Last year, Wimbledon organizers did not permit Russian and Belarusian players to participate. Moreover, players from these nations are barred from Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) events in England.
Earlier, Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina, who did not shake hands with Russian opponent Anna Blinkova, publicly expressed gratitude in a separate context.