Elina Svitolina will opt out of Monterrey rather than play a Russian opponent.
Ukrainian No. 1 Svitolina announced she will withdraw from Monterrey rather than face Russian Anastasia Potapova.
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The Odessa-born baseliner called on the WTA, ATP and ITF to follow the IOC and take action on Russian and Belarusian athletes in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
"I believe the current situation requires a clear position from our organizations: ATP, WTA and ITF," Svitolina wrote on Instagram. "As such we-Ukrainian players-requested to ATP, WTA and ITF to follow the recommendations of the IOC to accept Russian or Belarusian nationals only as neutral athletes, without displaying any national symbols, colors, flags or anthems."
"I will not play tomorrow in Monterrey, nor any other match against Russian or Belarusian tennis players until our organizations take this necessary decision," Svitolina wrote. "I do not blame any of the Russian athletes. They are not responsible for the invasion of our motherland. Moreover, I wish to pay tribute to all the players, especially Russians and Belarusians, who bravely stated their position against the war. Their support is essential."
Photo credit: Mark Peterson/Corleve