Alexander Shevchenko set to switch allegiances from Russia to Kazakhstan, wife Anastasia Potapova to follow?
ATPSaturday, 27 January 2024 at 21:00
World No.
48 Alexander Schevchenko announced a change in his flag and will represent
Kazakhstan starting next week. The 23-year-old tennis player has competed under
a 'neutral' flag for the past two years due to allegations and sanctions
against Russia amid the war.
As he
revealed on social media, he will now compete for Kazakhstan, following in the
footsteps of Elena Rybakina, Aleksander Bublik, and Yulia Putintseva, who were
born in Russia but received support from the Kazakh Tennis Federation in their
early careers, deciding to compete under the Kazakh flag.
With
Schevchenko's announcement, there is speculation about whether his wife,
Anastasia Potapova (world No. 27), will also join his decision since she
currently competes under a neutral flag. Schevchenko made the announcement on
social media, and starting Monday, he will appear with his new flag:
'Hi
everyone, just want to let everyone know that from next week on, I will
represent Kazakhstan on the court. I’m very proud about it and can’t wait to
step on the court, trying to make memorable moments for myself and the
country.'
It is
noteworthy that Schevchenko, unlike other tennis players who decided to
represent Kazakhstan, made this decision while already being part of the tennis
elite as a top-50 player. Others typically make such decisions at the beginning
of their tennis careers, seeking support and better opportunities for their
careers.
Recently,
the Vice President of the Kazakh Tennis Federation, Yuri Polsky, detailed that
Schevchenko approached them expressing his desire to represent Kazakhstan:
“He
receives a residence permit in Kazakhstan, we talked with him a long time ago.
Sasha [Alexander Shevchenko] wants to play for Kazakhstan,”
“Moreover,
[Shevchenko] has not lived in Russia for a long time; he is based in Europe. I
think that in the near future he will receive Kazakhstani citizenship and,
accordingly, will join our team,” the vice president said
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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