Alexander Shevchenko set to switch allegiances from Russia to Kazakhstan, wife Anastasia Potapova to follow?
ATP
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.
mandoist31-10-2026 - Osaka's mental state apparently does not allow her to reach any more Quarter Finals? I mean, she doesn't really have the time for tennis with all the pre-planning that must go into her 12 year-old "fashion" goals.mandoist29-10-2026
- With her money one would think she could afford a better team of Psychiatrists?mandoist29-10-2026
- Boss move, Sinner !Rapunzel27-10-2026
- Apparently still refusing to seek 'help' ...and still playing Dress-Up like a 10 year-old.mandoist27-10-2026
- Lena... Takin' care of businessmandoist25-10-2026
- Can you please stop publishing this nonsense? Stick to Tennis.mandoist25-10-2026
- Does Sinner need that 4.5 mil? I doubt it. He can make that with three modelling gigs!😅🤣Rapunzel21-10-2026
- Did "People Magazine" purchase this website? This nonstop storyline is bullshit.mandoist21-10-2026
