Sabalenka: I mean, I'm still have this belief that I did nothing bad to Ukraines; not me, not Russian athletes, not Belarusian athletes, not one of us did something bad,"
WTA
Current world number one Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka believes
that she has done nothing wrong to any Ukrainian player for being treated the
wrong way.
The two European neighbours are going through an armed conflict
which started back in February last year, resulting in death on both sides.
It is because of this reason some players from Ukraine have openly
decided to not shake hands with the players from Russia and Belarus.
During the 2023 BNP Paribas Open, another such incident took
place where Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko withdrew from the competition without
facing Sabalenka.
The player later revealed that one of the reasons why she
opted not to face the top-ranked player was because of her nationality.
Sabalenka addressed that issue while talking to the media
and stated that she has the belief in not doing anything wrong to any Ukrainian
player.
"Nobody can control emotions of others, you know. And I
think WTA are doing their best to kind of control it,” she said. “Yeah, of
course it's a lot of tension between us. I mean, I'm still have this belief
that I did nothing bad to Ukraines; not me, not Russian athletes, not
Belarusian athletes, not one of us did something bad. Even some of us are like
helping. Like not like, how to say, publicly, yes.
"So what else I can say? I think WTA are doing really
great job to support both sides, and whatever -- I mean, I cannot control their
emotions. I was through so many bad things, and unfortunately, I'm not able to
say that because who gonna believe Belarusian girl. I mean, talking about her
coach. I have been through also through hell, and I understand that... I don't
know.
"Yeah, I mean, I think Tsurenko withdraw, there was
more than panic attack or more than political situation. I think there is
something more. I had really tough situation last year with her coach the way
he act to me. So I think that guy put so much pressure on her, and that's why
that happen.”
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
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