Belarusian, Russian players sign declarations to compete at Wimbledon

April 26, BPN. Several Belarusian and Russian tennis players have applied to participate in the Wimbledon tennis tournament under a neutral flag, said the organizers, the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC).

Reuters quoted AELTC CEO Sally Bolton as saying on April 25 that some players have already signed personal declarations, while others “are able to right up until the entry deadline.” “I won’t share the details of who but a number of players have already signed,” she said.

Bolton stressed that the issue had been discussed with Ukrainian players, and most of those contacted understood the situation and the club’s decision.

On March 31, AELTC said they are willing to allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete at this year’s games as “neutral” athletes under certain conditions.

“These will prohibit expressions of support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in various forms and prohibit entry by players 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,” it said.

On April 20, 2022, the organizers decided to ban Russian and Belarusian players from the 2022 Grand Slam. The decision was due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, including from Belarusian territory.