Tennis Australia rejects calls to ban Russian, Belarussian players from Australian Open

Tennis Australia is standing by its position to allow Russian and Belarusian players to compete at this year's Australian Open, despite calls for them to be banned.

Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, issued a statement calling on TA to follow Wimbledon's lead and ban Russian and Belarusian players, in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine, Wide World of Sports reported on January 5.

"I will be seeking a meeting with the chair and CEO of Tennis Australia to put my government's position and to understand why Tennis Australia has not followed the lead of Wimbledon," Myroshnychenko said.

"Every missile strike against Ukraine takes place only because Russian citizens are supporting Putin's regime.

Some of the sport's biggest names, including two-time Australian Open finalist Daniil Medvedev, would be affected by a ban.

In a statement to Wide World of Sports, TA condemned the invasion of Ukraine.

"Tennis Australia stands united with the international governing bodies of tennis - the grand slams, the ATP and WTA Tours and the ITF - in its condemnation of Russia's actions and its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine," it said.

"The governing bodies of tennis issued a statement in March 2022 expressing shock, distress and sadness, along with a pledge to provide ongoing support for the people of Ukraine.

"Russia and Belarus were immediately suspended from all tennis team competition and official WTA and ATP Tour events in those countries were cancelled."

TA noted that Russian and Belarusian players will need to compete as neutral players in Melbourne.

"Players from Russia and Belarus are only able to compete in international tennis events as individuals – and without flags or country recognition – which will be the case for Australian Open 2023," it said.

"Tennis Australia is acting in accordance with the position and principles outlined in the statement by the Australian Sports Minister, who previously joined more than 30 counterparts from like-minded nations to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

"Tennis Australia continues to provide support to Ukraine and its community and players, particularly through the global Tennis Plays for Peace initiative, which includes a charity event prior to the Australian Open."