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ITF reacts: Exclusion of Russia and Belarus

The conflict in Ukraine has further consequences. In an official statement , the ITF announced the exclusion of Russia and Belarus.

by Dennis Heineman
last edit: Mar 01, 2022, 08:09 pm

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ITF President David Haggerty
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ITF President David Haggerty

The statement says:

“The International Tennis Federation (ITF) condemns the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Belarus' support for it. In addition to the cancellation of all ITF events in these countries, the ITF Executive Board today announced the immediate suspension of the Russian Tennis Federation (RTF) and the Belarus Tennis Federation (BTF) from ITF membership and from participation in ITF international team competitions until further notice given. The ITF remains in close contact with the Ukraine Tennis Federation and shows solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

The explanation follows under the item "More Information" answers to various questions:

What does 'suspended' as an ITF member country mean?

No participation in ITF team competitions

No right to vote at the ITF General Meeting

Does this mean that tennis players from Russia and Belarus are excluded from the competition?

They are not prohibited from participating in the tours as individuals so long as they compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus.

Until when is the ban?

The suspension is indefinite, but Russia and Belarus have been withdrawn or are ineligible to participate in all ITF 2022 international team competitions.

Which team competitions will you no longer participate in?

In response to the last question, the ITF provides a list of all tournaments that Russia and Belarus are no longer allowed to participate in.

A joint statement from all associations is also making the rounds on social media, such as here on Ben Rothenberg's Twitter account.

by Dennis Heineman

Tuesday
Mar 01, 2022, 08:10 pm
last edit: Mar 01, 2022, 08:09 pm