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In an unexpected turn of events, Russian tennis player Wiera Zwonariowa’s participation in the upcoming BNP Paribas Open in Warsaw, Poland, has been thwarted. The Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration released an official statement stating that Zwonariowa’s entry into the country was prevented by the Border Guard, citing reasons related to national security and public safety.
The highly anticipated WTA 250 tournament, set to kick off in Warsaw, will see the absence of not only Wiera Zwonariowa but also Belarusian player Alaksandra Sasnowicz. Despite both athletes competing under a neutral flag, Zwonariowa’s presence was disallowed due to her inclusion on the list of undesirable individuals in Poland, who support actions taken by Russia and Belarus.
Minister’s Stand: Sports Boycott of Russian and Belarusian Players
Kamil Bortniczuk, the Minister of Sports and Tourism, has announced his decision to boycott matches involving Russian and Belarusian players, including potential clashes with Poland’s own tennis star, Igga Świątek. This move reflects Poland’s firm stance against the regimes of Putin and Łukaszenka, refusing entry to individuals who endorse their actions.
The WTA and ATP have faced challenges in hosting tournaments with Russian and Belarusian players due to ongoing political tensions. Even Wimbledon authorities have expressed similar reservations. As a result, the controversy has sparked debates surrounding the involvement of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international sports events.