Wimbledon’s decision to bar Russian and Belarusian players from competing in the Championships is “unfair,” according to Rafael Nadal, the Spanish tennis legend, who spoke to the media in Madrid on Sunday. The 21-time major winner believes the All England Club went with “the most extreme approach,” and hopes the tours can find a way to work around the restriction.
The ATP and WTA, as well as players such as Rafael Nadal’s great rival Novak Djokovic, have slammed Wimbledon for imposing the suspension in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Belarus is seen as a Russian ally and has allowed Russian forces to cross its border into Ukraine.
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The ban excludes a slew of excellent players, including men’s world number two Daniil Medvedev and women’s semi-finalist Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus from this year’s tournament.
Rafael Nadal feels its Unfair for Russian and Belarus Players
“It’s unjust for my Russian teammates,” Nadal stated. “In that sense, what’s going on with the conflict right now isn’t their fault.”
“I’m sorry for their troubles. I wish things were different, but at the end of the day, we know what we have.”
Nadal, who is competing in the Madrid Masters after a six-week layoff due to a rib ailment. Believes it may be up to him and his teammates to take a position.
Meanwhile, world number one Djokovic stated he has not spoken to anyone from the ATP Tour. But believes that talks are taking on to see how Wimbledon’s decision may be overturned.
Due of his Covid vaccination status, the Serbian star has had to miss some of the season’s major events, including the Australian Open, Indian Wells, and Miami.
“It’s not the same thing,” said the 20-time Grand Slam champion, “but having gone through something similar earlier this year for myself, it’s terrible knowing you can’t play.”
“I’m still adamant that I don’t agree with the decision. It’s not right, and it’s not fair, but it is what it is.
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