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Wimbledon denies its ban on Russian & Belarusian athletes is discriminatory
The organisers of Wimbledon 2022 have hit back at claims they’re discriminating against Russian and Belarusian athletes, following a recent ban
The chairman of the tournament Ian Hewitt says Russia’s invasion of Ukraine put them in an“extreme situation”.
The ban is the first of its kind in an elite tennis event and moves in line with Governments and other sporting bodies around the world.
Wimbledon’s decisions meant Russian and Belarusian athletes were scrapped from the iconic Tennis event, which will kick off on June 27.
Hewitt says they didn’t want to risk letting Russia use the athletes to benefit Russia’s propaganda machine.
The organisation also stressing the move ensures the safety and well-being of all players and their families.
Conflicting opinions
The ban has divided the tennis community. While some support the ban and its solidarity with Ukraine, others have been quick to slam it as unfair and discriminatory.
World number one Novak Djokovic has criticised Wimbledon’s move and urged a review of the decision.