Wimbledon: Russian & Belarusian players to be accepted as "neutral" athletes

"Our current intention is to accept entries from Russian and Belarusian players (at the Wimbledon Grand Slam tournament, 03-16/07/2023) subject to them competing as 'neutral' athletes and complying with appropriate conditions," announced the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), organiser of the English tournament, on 31/03/2023.

These conditions "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," continued the AELTC.

The AELTC had decided, against the advice of the ATP and the WTA, to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes from the 2022 edition of the London tournament, on 20/04/2022. The organiser explained that it would be "unacceptable for the Russian regime to derive any benefits from the involvement of Russian or Belarusian players with The Championships."

"We are pleased that all players will have an opportunity to…