Wimbledon Chiefs Say 'No Viable Alternative' To Russia Player Ban

Wimbledon was left with "no viable alternative" to banning Russian and Belarusian players from this year's Championships, tournament chiefs at the All England Club said on Tuesday. Organisers of the Grand Slam last week announced the move in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, meaning stars such as Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Aryna Sabalenka and Victoria Azarenka cannot play at the event, which starts in late June. The decision was criticised by the ATP, which runs the men's tour, and women's tour organisers the WTA, while Rublev labelled it "complete discrimination" and defending Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic said it was "crazy".

But All England Club (AELTC) chairman Ian Hewitt defended the move, saying the decision was made after careful consideration, taking into account UK government guidance.

"We have considered at length the options available," he told reporters.

"These are in effect two options -- declining entries or allowing entries but only with specific declarations (against the invasion of Ukraine) from individual players.

"We considered a wide variety of factors. After lengthy and careful consideration, we came to two firm conclusions.

"First, even if we were to accept entries (from Russian and Belarusian players) with written declarations, we would risk their success or participation being used to benefit the propaganda machine of the Russian regime, which we could not accept.

"Second, we have a duty to ensure no actions should put players or their families at risk. We understand and deeply regret the impact this will have on all the people affected.

"We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible. We believe (given government guidance) there is no viable alternative in this