ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 17: Victoria Azarenka of Belarus plays a forehand in her round two match against Sofia Kenin of The United States during day four of the Internazionali BNL d'Italia at Foro Italico on September 17, 2020 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Angelo Carconi - Pool/Getty Images)
Belarus tennis star Victoria Azarenka is heart broken by the incidents taking place and has called for peace
Victoria Azarenka has voiced her opinion on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Her country, Belarus is reportedly assisting Russia in the invasion of Ukraine from the northern side. Victoria Azarenka, born in Minsk is one of the biggest sporting stars from Belarus. She is a former World No. 1, a multiple-time Grand Slam champion and an Olympic Gold medalist.
Azarenka expressed her concerns on Twitter. She wrote, “I am devastated by the actions that have taken place over the last several days against and in Ukraine. It’s heart breaking to see how many innocent people have been affected and continue to be affected by such violence.” Azarenka further added, “Since, my early childhood, I have always seen and experienced Belarusian and Ukrainian people, as well as both nations friendly and supportive of each other.”
The 32-year old has pleaded for peace and the war to stop echoing similar sentiments to her fellow Tennis players and sports stars across the globe. “It is hard to witness the violent separation that is currently taking place instead of supporting and finding compassion for each other. My heart is with everyone directly and indirectly impacted by this war that is causing such pain and suffering for so many. I hope and wish for peace and an end to the war”, Azarenka said.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has announced its sanctions on the Russian and Belarusian tennis associations. Earlier, the International Olympic Committee had called for suspension of Russian and Belarusian players from participating in any international sporting event.
The ITF says in its statement, “The ITF condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its facilitation by Belarus. In addition to the cancellation of all ITF events in those countries the ITF Board has today announced the immediate suspension of the Russian Tennis Federation (RTF) and Belarus Tennis Federation (BTF) from ITF membership and from participation in International team competitions until further notice. The ITF remains in close contact with the Ukraine Tennis Federation and stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”
The announcement means players like Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Victoria Azarenka can still participate in events but as individual athletes and not under the flag of Russia or Belarus. The suspension is for an indefinite period and Russia and Belarus stand disqualified from the prestigious Davis Cup, a team event.
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