ATP criticise Wimbledon decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus

The ATP have criticised Wimbledon’s decision to ban all players from Russia and Belarus.

A statement on behalf of the All England Club and the Committee of Management of The Championships expressed ongoing support to "all those impacted by the conflict in Ukraine during these shocking and distressing times".

It added: "We share in the universal condemnation of Russia’s illegal actions and have carefully considered the situation in the context of our duties to the players, to our community and to the broader UK public as a British sporting institution.

"We have also taken into account guidance set out by the UK Government specifically in relation to sporting bodies and events.

"Given the profile of The Championships in the United Kingdom and around the world, it is our responsibility to play our part in the widespread efforts of Government, industry, sporting and creative institutions to limit Russia’s global influence through the strongest means possible.

"In the circumstances of such unjustified and unprecedented military aggression, it would be unacceptable for the Russian regime to derive any benefits from the involvement of Russian or Belarusian players with The Championships.

"It is therefore our intention, with deep regret, to decline entries from Russian and Belarusian players to The Championships 2022."

However, the ATP reacted to the announcement by saying it believed the decision could set a "damaging precedent".

"Our sport is proud to operate on the fundamental principles of merit and fairness, where players compete as individuals to earn their place in tournaments based on the ATP Rankings," an ATP statement read.

"We believe that today’s unilateral decision by Wimbledon and the LTA to exclude players from