Wimbledon allows Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutral

Players in the popular tennis tournament should sign declarations of impartiality and respect the appropriate “preconditions, including not expressing support for Ukraine's Russian invasion, Euronews writes.

“This was a very difficult decision, not easily or without great consideration for those who would be affected”, All England Club chairman Ian Hewitt said in a statement.

The racers cannot receive funds from Russian or Belarusian governments, including sponsorship from operated or controlled companies.

All England Club said the conditions were created through talks with the British government, the LTA and the international <x0horgans of interested parties in tennis”.

Those affected include Australian Open champion Arina Sabalenka from Belarus and Russian players Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev.

Other tennis tours have allowed Russian and Belarusn players to compete as neutral athletes.

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This year's Wimbledon tournament will begin 3 July. The women's final is scheduled for 15 July and men's on 16 July.

The statement comes amid the International Olympic Committee's recommendation to allow Russian and Belarusite athletes to compete as neutrals in several events, prompting possible boycotts from several countries.