Andy Murray reveals he expects Russian and Belarusian players to be allowed to return to Wimbledon this year. The ATP, WTA, and International Tennis Federation were strongly against the decision Wimbledon made last year. Going into this year’s Wimbledon, the ATP, WTA, and ITF have made it pretty clear to Wimbledon that they don’t want the same situation at The Championships in 2023.
Also in recent months, there have been reports from Great Britain suggesting that the Wimbledon organizers are “under the pressure” to change their stance. “It’s a really difficult one and I do feel for the players who weren’t able to play last year – but I also understand the situation and why it’s really hard for Wimbledon to make a call on it as well.
My understanding is that they are going to be allowed to play and I’m not going to be going nuts if that is the case. But if Wimbledon went down another route I would be understanding of that,” Murray told BBC Sport.
Murray was ‘not supportive’ of last year’s ban
After Wimbledon confirmed Russian and Belarusian players were banned from competing in last year’s tournament, Murray said he “was not supportive of players getting banned.” However, Murray also noted that he felt for the Wimbledon organizers due to their “difficult position.” “I’m not supportive of players getting banned.
My understanding of the guidance was that Russians and Belarusians can play if they sign a declaration that they’re against the war and against the Russian regime. I’m not sure how comfortable I would feel if something happened to one of the players or their families [as a result].
I don’t think there’s a right answer. I have spoken to some of the Russian players. I’ve spoken to some of the Ukrainian players. I feel really bad for the players who aren’t allowed to play and I get that it will seem unfair to them.
But I also know some of the people who work at Wimbledon, and I know how difficult a position they were in. I feel for everyone, feel for the players that can’t play, and I don’t support one side or the other,” Murray said last May.
