Wimbledon in talks with UK government as reports of ban on Russian tennis players emerge
- UK sports minister Nigel Huddleston last month said ‘absolutely nobody flying the flag for Russia should be allowed or enabled’
- Organisers are currently liaising with a number of bodies, including Britain’s Lawn Tennis Association, ahead of a verdict before next month’s entry deadline
Wimbledon officials are in ongoing talks with the UK government regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian players in this year’s championships.
Reports have suggested men’s tennis world number two Daniil Medvedev could be banned from the tournament due to fears a Russian victory would boost Vladimir Putin’s regime amid the invasion of Ukraine.
Russian and Belarusian athletes have so far been permitted to continue playing in ATP, WTA and ITF competitions as long as they do so under a neutral flag and with no anthem played.
But it is understood the All England Club, which hosts Wimbledon, may be allowed to implement a ban on players from those countries without risk of legal repercussions due to its independent tournament status.
Organisers are currently liaising with a number of bodies, including government and Britain’s Lawn Tennis Association, ahead of announcing a verdict before next month’s entry deadline.
“We have noted the UK Government’s guidance regarding the attendance of Russian and Belarusian individuals in a neutral capacity at sporting events in the UK,” read a statement from the All England Club.