Wimbledon officially lifts ban on Russian and Belarusian players, allowed to play as neutrals

The All England Lawn and Tennis Club (AELTC) have announced that at the forthcoming Wimbledon Championships which will take place between July 3-16, 2023 that Russians and Belarusians will be allowed to play but with a caveat.

Athletes from both nations must sign declarations of neutrality and must not express support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while those receiving state funding from either nation will remain barred.

The same conditions will remain in place for other LTA events including Queen's during the Grass court swing. Previously Wimbledon was barred from ranking points and heavily fined.

This meant that despite Elena Rybakina being a current Grand Slam champion alongside her recent form, she still remains behind Coco Gauff just inside the top 10 and not in the top three where she would currently be.

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Ian Hewitt, chairman of the All England Club, said: ‘We continue to condemn totally Russia’s illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the people of Ukraine.

‘This was an incredibly difficult decision, not taken lightly or without a great deal of consideration for those who will be impacted. It is our view that, considering all factors, these are the most appropriate arrangements for the Championships for this year.

‘We are thankful for the Government’s support as we and our fellow tennis stakeholder bodies have navigated this complex matter and agreed on conditions we believe are workable.

‘If circumstances change materially between now and the commencement of the Championships, we will consider and respond accordingly.’

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