Aryna Sabalenka flag ban remains as WTA and ITF reportedly maintain neutral status
WTAWednesday, 20 May 2026 at 02:30
Aryna Sabalenka will continue competing without the Belarusian flag and anthem in WTA tournaments, Grand Slams, and the Olympic Games. The position remains unchanged despite recent International Olympic Committee guidance suggesting a relaxation of restrictions on athletes from Belarus and Russia in other sports.
Sources indicate that both the WTA and the International Tennis Federation have decided not to alter their current framework. The ATP has not issued a public update on the matter, leaving men’s tennis without an explicit response to the IOC’s evolving stance.
Under the existing structure, Belarusian players continue to compete as neutrals across individual competition. However, they remain excluded from team events such as the Billie Jean King Cup and the United Cup. No ITF-sanctioned tournaments are currently staged in Belarus, reinforcing the operational restrictions already in place.
The information was first made public by tennis journalist Dominik Senkowski (@dsenkowski07) via his social media channels, where he reported that the WTA had confirmed “no change” to its policy despite the IOC’s recent decision and that further internal analysis is still ongoing.
Governing bodies maintain existing framework
The WTA’s position is understood to be unchanged following internal consultations, with officials indicating there is “no change” at this stage. The governing body is believed to be continuing its review process before considering any adjustments to its current neutrality policy for Belarusian and Russian athletes.
The ITF has similarly taken no immediate steps to alter eligibility rules or national representation status. Together, the two bodies maintain the competitive structure introduced following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which initially led to the removal of national symbols from players representing both countries.
The ATP, which governs the men’s tour, has not publicly aligned itself with either the IOC’s recommendation or the existing WTA/ITF stance. This silence leaves men’s tennis formally unchanged, though without clarity on whether any review process is underway.
Sabalenka’s position and prior comments
The current world No. 1 previously expressed a desire to return to competing under the Belarusian flag following the IOC’s decision to ease Olympic restrictions. Speaking during her Rome Open campaign, she emphasized the emotional significance of national representation.
“I really hope they're going to give us our flag back,” Sabalenka said during the Rome Open. “I just know how much of an inspiration I am for young kids… I just want them to feel confident that no matter where you come from you can make it all the way to the top.”
“For me representing such a small country… it means a lot to me," the 4-time Grand Slam champion added. "I would be super proud to represent Belarus.”
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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