By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Wednesday March 2, 2022
Victoria Azarenka, one of Belarus’ biggest sporting stars, has spoken out against the war on social media. The two-time Grand Slam champion and former World No.1 says she is “devastated” by the events of the last week, in which Belarus has played a significant role in the invasion of Ukraine.
“I am devastated by the actions that have taken place over the last several days against and in Ukraine,” she said. “It’s heartbreaking to see how many innocent people have been affected and continue to be affected by such violence.
"Since my early childhood, I have always seen and experienced Ukrainian and Belarusian people, as well as both nations, friendly and supportive of one another. It’s hard to witness the violent separation that is currently taking place instead of supporting and finding compassion for each other. My heart is with everyone directly and indirectly impacted by this war that is causing such pain and suffering for so many. I hope and wish for peace and an end to the war.”
Being Belarusian, Azarenka faces the same restrictions that were levied against Russia in yesterday’s joint statement by the ITF, WTA and ATP.
“At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams. However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice,” the statement read.
Belarus is now seen as an extension of the Kremlin by many. Vladimir Putin stood by Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko when he faced major protests after the 2020 election that many believed was illegitimate, and now the former Soviet Republic appears willing to host Russian nuclear weapons on its soil.