Christopher BarrettThe Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has lifted its ban on Russian and Belarusian players competing at the Wimbledon Championships.
Russian and Belarusian professional tennis players were banned from competing at all British tour-level events in 2022 but were able to compete as neutrals in the other Grand Slams. The LTA was fined for its decisions to ban the players.
The LTA said it intends to accept entries to Wimbledon from Russian and Belarusian players subject to them competing as neutral athletes and complying with certain other conditions. They will be prohibited from expressing support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and from receiving funding from the Russian and/or Belarusian states – including sponsorship from companies operated or controlled by the states – in relation to their participation in The Championships.
The Wimbledon Championships will commence on 3 July at the All England Club.
The LTA said the conditions have been carefully developed through dialogue with the UK Government and international stakeholder bodies in tennis, in line with the Government’s published guidance to sporting bodies in the UK.
Ian Hewitt, chairman of the All England Club, said, “We continue to condemn totally Russia’s illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the people of Ukraine.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision, not taken lightly or without a great deal of consideration for those who will be impacted.
“It is our view that, considering all factors, these are the most appropriate arrangements for The Championships for this year. We are thankful for the Government’s support as we and our fellow tennis stakeholder bodies have navigated this complex matter and agreed on conditions we believe are workable.
“If circumstances change materially between now and the commencement of The Championships, we will consider and respond accordingly.”