Russian star Anna Kalinskaya wears trainers embroidered with 'No War' sign at Indian Wells

In the wake of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Russian tennis star Anna Kalinskaya sported trainers with the words 'No War' written on them during her first round match at the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells event.

Kalinskaya, who is ranked 86th in the world, progressed to the second round in California after her opponent, Harmony Tan, was forced to retire early in the second set. However, it was not Kalinskaya's performance that got fans talking but rather her shoes, which had the words “No War” written on them.

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The message is in reference to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and Kalinskaya is one of many athletes to be vocal in their condemnation of what’s happening in Eastern Europe right now. A week ago, the 23-year-old took to Instagram and called for peace, while posting an image of a shattered heart–shaped cloud in the sky.

Russian athletes are no longer able to compete under their country’s flag, after the WTA introduced new measures in light of current events. The decision came after Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina refused to play Russia’s Anastasia Potapova unless action was taken.

Kalinskaya is still searching for her first WTA title and has never reached beyond the second round of a Grand Slam. She has, however, won seven titles on the ITF circuit and will face French veteran Alize Cornet in the second round at Indian Wells.

Ben Rothenberg

@BenRothenberg

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Anna Kalinskaya of Russia advanced to the second round of Indian Wells with a message.

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