Despite appeals for Russia and Belarus to be barred from the Australian Open this year, tennis Australia is standing by its decision to let those players participate.

Vasyl Myroshnychenko, the Ukrainian ambassador to Australia, released a statement after the invasion of Ukraine urging TA to follow Wimbledon’s example and ban Russian and Belarusian players.

Myroshnychenko stated, “I’ll ask to meet with Tennis Australia’s CEO and chairperson to explain the views of my government and to understand why Tennis Australia has not adopted Wimbledon’s practices.”

“Only because Russian citizens back Putin’s dictatorship do missile strikes against Ukraine occur.”

“Neutrality has no place in the face of horrific war crimes.”

A ban would impact some of the biggest names in the sport, including Daniil Medvedev, a two-time finalist at the Australian Open.

Wide World of Sports received a message from TA denouncing the invasion of Ukraine.

According to Tennis Australia, the grand slams, the WTA Tours, ATP, and the ITF are all unified in their criticism of Russia’s conduct and its unjustified invasion of Ukraine.

The statement from the tennis governing bodies in March 2022 expressed shock, grief, and sadness, as well as a commitment to continue supporting the people of Ukraine.

“All tennis team competition involving Russia and Belarus was immediately suspended, and official WTA and ATP Tour events in both nations were canceled.”

According to TA, Russian and Belarusian athletes will have to compete in Melbourne as neutral athletes.

It stated that, as of the Australian Open 2023, “Only people from Russia and Belarus are permitted to compete in international tennis competitions; no flags or country recognition are allowed. “

“Tennis Australia is following in accordance with the stance and principles outlined in the statement by the Australian Sports Minister, who earlier joined more than 30 peers from like-minded countries to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

“Through the global Tennis Plays for Peace project, which includes a charitable event before the Australian Open, Tennis Australia continues to support Ukraine, its community, and its players.”

In Adelaide, Medvedev should have addressed the topic.

“As a player, I must adhere to the regulations, as they have always been the same, stated Medvedev.”

“I couldn’t play when we were banned from Wimbledon, so I didn’t play. I’m a tennis player, so I’m pleased to compete in any tournaments I can go to wherever in the world.

“I’m pleased to appear and perform for the audience. I have no other option but to do that.