Russian tennis star Anastasia Potapova responds to Ukrainian opponent refusing to play her

Anastasia Potapova says Russian athletes are ‘hostages of the situation’ amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last week.

The Russian’s comments come after her Ukrainian opponent and No.1 seed at the Monterrey Open, Elina Svitolina, said she would refuse to play her with tennis’ governing bodies failing to take action amid the ongoing conflict.

Potapova has now spoken out on Instagram with their first-round match in Mexico still in doubt given World No.15 Svitolina’s stance.

‘As a rule, even in childhood we choose our own path of development. Even when I was a kid, I dreamed of playing tennis without choosing a match, a country or a partner in the game,’ Potapova said.

For the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, visit our live blog: Russia-Ukraine live

‘It is difficult to explain to people from politics that for me there is no opponent from any country, I am fighting for victory, my best game, for my result.

‘Unfortunately, now we, professional athletes, are essentially becoming hostages of the current situation. Playing tennis is our choice and our dream, to which we go daily, practicing, and constantly trying to be better in our results.

‘I’m sorry, but even though I am a stranger to politics, I am against grief, tears and war.

For the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, visit our live blog: Russia-Ukraine live

‘The peace unites the world, and everyone should remain human in it. And children should continue to dream.’

While the likes of FIFA have banned all Russian football teams from competing and Formula One have cancelled the Russian Grand Prix this year, tennis’ governing bodies have remained silent.

Svitolina says she doesn’t hold anything against her Russian opponent but has demanded the likes of the Women’s Tennis