Lesya Tsurenko on the boycott of Russian tournaments: how they stopped the tennis players

Ukrainian tennis player Lesya Tsurenko shared her thoughts on the impact of the Russo-Ukrainian war on the global tennis tour. She noted that at the initial stage of the conflict, some European athletes were calmly regarding exhibition tournaments in Russia, but efforts were made to change this situation.

Lesya also pointed out the positive example of Italian tennis player Jasmine Paolini, who did not go to play in Russia after being informed by Tsurenko. She also emphasized the support from players from Poland and the Czech Republic.

“I think it is more painful for them that they cannot participate in team competitions. This is always important to them, and they write about their victories in team competitions. I believe this is insufficient; there should be more sanctions at all levels, but we have what we have.”

Tsurenko also expressed her conviction about the necessity of adopting stricter sanctions against Russia and Belarus, considering the removal of their flags from sporting events a minimal step.

Current situation

The discussion about the participation of players in the exhibition tournament in the Russian Federation remains in focus, where both local tennis players and athletes from other countries will compete. It is also worth noting the achievements of Ukrainian athletes, particularly the ascent of Oleksandra Oliynykova into the top 100 of the WTA rankings and the start of Elina Svitolina's new tennis season in New Zealand.