Russian, Belarusian Players Get Nod To Play At 2023 Wimbledon

Russian and Belarusian tennis players will be free to compete at Wimbledon this summer after the All England Club (AELTC) lifted the ban imposed on them.

The players were banned last year in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the support provided by Belarus.

But after a decision was reached by Wimbledon and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) on Friday, the players were deemed eligible to feature this year. 

They will have to sign declarations of neutrality in order to play at Wimbledon and all the UK warm-up events, including Queen’s Club and Eastbourne.

A Wimbledon statement reads: “Our current intention is to accept entries from Russian and Belarusian players subject to them competing as ‘neutral’ athletes and complying with appropriate 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."

Wimbledon CEO Sally Bolton also told reporters by video call on Friday that the decision taken by AELTC had been "very carefully considered."

“We’ve been extremely conscious of the people that would be impacted by the decision we have made. 

"It’s important to say that in particular our thoughts are with those living in Ukraine still under the invasion of Ukraine, and particularly to the Ukrainian players as they operate on the Tour.

“Our position on Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has not changed. 

"We absolutely continue to condemn that," he added.

Wimbledon starts this year on 3 July at the All-England Club.