Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba thinks Wimbledon gave Vladimir Putin ‘a win’

Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba thinks Wimbledon gave Russian President Vladimir Putin “a win” by allowing Russian and Belarusian players to compete at The Championships this year.

On March 31st, Wimbledon announced that Russian and Belarusian players will be allowed to compete at The All England Club this year after being banned from the event last year. 

“Last year, Wimbledon took the difficult but noble decision to bar competitors from Russia and Belarus. [The] organisers deserve credit for doing the right thing. What has changed since? Not much. We should not hand Putin wins,” Kuleba wrote in the Daily Express.

Now, Kulebo is calling for the UK government to stand up and refuse to issue visas to Russian and Belarusian players. 

“If the Wimbledon organisers lack courage, official London could stand firm and shut the door,” Kuleba said.

Ukraine Foreign Minister Kuleba not happy about the Wimbledon decision

It was not a secret that the ATP and WTA didn’t want Russian and Belarusian players to be again denied participation at Wimbledon.

Also, there were reports suggesting that Great Britain could lose the right to stage ATP and WTA events by banning Russian and Belarusian players from 2023 Wimbledon.

In their statement, Wimbledon expressed sympathy for the people of Ukraine and noted they were in a difficult situation.

“We continue to condemn totally Russia’s illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the people of Ukraine. This was an incredibly difficult decision, not taken lightly or without a great deal of consideration for those who will be impacted. It is our view that, considering all factors, these are the most appropriate arrangements for The Championships for this year. We are thankful for the Government’s support as we and our fellow tennis stakeholder bodies have navigated this complex matter and agreed on conditions we believe are workable. If circumstances change materially between now and the commencement of The Championships, we will consider and respond accordingly,” AELTC Chairman Ian Hewitt said.