World No.1 Iga Swiatek has called on tennis‘ governing bodies to unite their stances regarding the inclusion of Russian and Belarusian players in tournaments, to avoid the “chaos” created by Wimbledon’s decision to ban players from this year’s grand slam over the invasion of Ukraine.
The former Roland Garros champion has openly shown her support for Ukraine, wearing a ribbon with the country’s national colours during her professional matches.
Speaking to the media at the Madrid Open after announcing her withdrawal due to injury, Swiatek said she would like to see consistency implemented across all tournaments and grand slams.
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“The situation is getting like more and more chaotic,” she said.
“But I feel like it would be nice to have all these bodies making the proper decision so that we’re not going to have that kind of chaos.
“I feel like people are expecting us players to make the decision, but it’s pretty hard for us to make one because we know these people. We know each other. We are spending so much time on tour that it feels like we’re family.
“For sure it’s a tough situation and that’s why I think the actual people who are responsible for making this decision, they should make one decision that is going to last.”
Swiatek did not state whether she believed the All England Club’s decision to be fair or not, admitting she does not feel equipped enough to weigh in on the matter in a conclusive way.
“I don’t know what decision is right, because honestly, I’m 20 and it’s not like I’m saying that because I want to stay in a safe bubble. But honestly, I’ve never been involved in politics and it’s not like I know everything,” she said.
“It’s more like I still need to educate myself and I feel like I should educate myself a little bit more in that.
“So I can’t tell what’s the best decision that’s for sure. Making some moves that are going to help stop the war a little bit would be better.”
The WTA and ATP tennis tours have publicly criticised Wimbledon‘s blanket ban.