Ukraine’s highest-ranked tennis player has criticised a recommendation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to allow Belarusian athletes to play under their flag.
Elina Svitolina has questioned the fairness of changing such a policy that has been in place ever since the Russian invasion of her home country in 2022. In the aftermath of the invasion, various sporting governing bodies implemented rules that allow athletes from both Russia and Belarus to compete only if they do so under natural status. The reason was due to concerns that these countries may use sport as propaganda in the war. Whilst it was not directly involved in the invasion, Belarus is accused of being a key backer of Russia’s actions.
“Athletes’ participation in international competition should not be limited by the actions of their governments, including involvement in a war or conflict,” the IOC said in a statement.
The IOC hasn’t made similar recommendations for Russian athletes due to some reservations about the country’s Olympic Committee (ROC). They add that there have been ‘constructive’ exchanges with the ROC about their suspension.
However, the IOC’s decision to change its stance while the war is still ongoing in Ukraine has sparked criticism from those in the country, including Svitolina. The world No.10 is an ambassador for UNITED24, which is a government-run platform that raises funds to support those in Ukraine during the war.
“The war is still ongoing. Still, rockets are going to Ukraine. Those two countries are still considered aggressors,” she told reporters at the Italian Open.
“For us, it’s very sad and very painful to see this even considered; they’re talking about it.
“It’s a very, very heavy topic. I have a lot to say. I think now is not the best time. I’m definitely not supporting the talks.”
Recently, another Ukrainian claims she has been threatened with sanctions from the WTA over her criticism of specific players from Russia and Belarus. Oleksandra Oliynykova has made various allegations, with one of the most recent being that Polina Kudermetova and Karen Khachanov had publicly used the ribbon of Saint George, a Russian military symbol. The tennis star says she has been “threatened with fines of tens of thousands of dollars” and“disqualification.”
“I’ve seen the comments about that. Actually, I want to get more information from her,” Svitolina commented on her compatriot.
“I had no chance to speak to her to understand what she meant behind that.”
Since the IOC’s recommendation, the International Tennis Federation issued a statement confirming their stance on the matter will remain unchanged, but the topic of Belarus’ membership will be discussed during their AGM later this year. However, the participation status of Russian and Belarusian players on the tour is decided by the WTA and ATP. Furthermore, each of the four Grand Slams has its own governing body.
