WTA took immediate action against Wimbledon for the Russian and Belarusia players ban of 2022 edition, imposing a harsh fine on it: £620,000 against the LTA and 207,000 pounds against the famous club that hosts the event.
ATP instead waited several months before acting and breaking ranks. The Association of Tennis Professionals has also opted for a severe fine of £820,000. Fine to be paid by the British Tennis Federation. According to the BBC, the Lawn Tennis Association reacted harshly to the ATP’s decision and is expected to appeal the fine.
The British Tennis Federation did not like the hard line taken by the ATP and the WTA. In the coming weeks we will see if the wrath of the London Slam will lead to action against the ATP and WTA, or if the board of the All England Club will let it slide.
It will also be interesting to understand Wimbledon’s position towards Russian and Belarusian players for the 2023 edition: will they follow their path, facing other possible sanctions or will they take a step back?
Wimbledon ban against Russian and Belarusian players
The organizers of the Wimbledon tournament, following the hard line taken by the British government, have created one of the most controversial moments of the season.
In fact, he has decided to exclude Russian and Belarusian tennis players from the third Grand Slam of the year. The choice made by the Championships found firm opposition from the ATP and the WTA, which condemned the severe measure.
In an official press conference, held a few days before the start of the tournament, the president of the All England Club Ian Hewitt wanted to explain the main reasons for the choice. “Now I would like to address the issue that is at the center of our attention, namely the will to deny participation in Wimbledon to Russian and Belarusian athletes.
After long and careful consideration, we have come to two conclusions on which our decisions are based. Even if we accept the participation of Russians and Belarusians with written statements, we risk that their successful participation will be used as propaganda by the Russian regime.
Which we could not accept. We must also ensure that everything we do does not put players or their families at risk. Following the directives of the Government, there is no valid alternative to the decision taken in this tragic and particular circumstance.”
