"We continue to do as much as we have the ability to do": WTA Chief Steve Simon responds after criticism surrounding handling of Ukraine-Russian war

WTA Chief Steve Simon responded to criticism about the organisation's handling of the Russia - Ukraine War saying that they are doing as much as they can.

The WTA has handled the Russia - Ukraine conflict in a very interesting manner garnering criticism from all sides. Some have been supportive of their measures with others less so but it's a fine line to navigate due to the complexity of the issue. Iga Swiatek pointed out recently that the WTA has done a lot to make Russian players comfortable but not so much for Ukranians which is a valid criticism.

Simon now responded to thoe criticism:

“A few days ago, I had a conversation with our WTA CEO Steve Simon, and I was absolutely shocked by what I heard. He told me that he himself does not support the war, but if the players from Russia and Belarus support it, then this is only their own opinion, and the opinion of other people should not upset me. At the same time, he noted that if this had happened to him and he had been in my place, he would have felt terrible.”

On supporthing Ukraine players, Simon did promise they would support them:

“We continue to do as much as we have the ability to do. We have done a lot for our athletes, I know there’s a variety of opinions on that out there. What’s going on in Ukraine is reprehensible. You can’t support it any way – nor what the Russian government is doing. We spoke with Anastasia directly and also have given her a warning so she knows that this was not appropriate and I don’t think we will see any further instances of this going forward.”