Aryna Sabalenka has called for Wimbledon to announce the elimination of
handshakes between Russian, Belarusian, and Ukrainian players following the booing of Victoria Azarenka by supporters as she backs rival Elina Svitolina.
Elina Svitolina, a prominent Ukrainian tennis player, has recently raised concerns regarding the treatment of players from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine at Wimbledon.
Svitolina’s call for action comes in the wake of an unfortunate incident involving Victoria Azarenka, who was subjected to booing by some spectators.
To address these tensions and promote a more respectful environment, Svitolina has urged Wimbledon officials to announce the elimination of handshakes specifically between players from these nations.
The Incident:
During a recent match at Wimbledon, Victoria Azarenka, a Belarusian tennis star, faced an unpleasant reception from a section of spectators.
The booing aimed at Azarenka left many players, including Svitolina, disheartened and concerned about the treatment of athletes from certain countries.
Elina Svitolina’s Initiative:
In light of the incident involving Azarenka, Elina Svitolina has taken a proactive stance by advocating for change.
Svitolina believes that eliminating handshakes between players from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine can help prevent further tensions and provide a more respectful atmosphere on the court.
Svitolina’s Request to Wimbledon:
Svitolina has officially requested Wimbledon officials to publicly announce the removal of handshakes specifically between players from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.
By doing so, Svitolina aims to prevent any potential uncomfortable encounters or disrespect that might arise during the customary post-match handshakes.
The Significance:
Svitolina’s call for action carries significance beyond the individual incident involving Azarenka. It highlights the need to promote unity, fair play, and respect among athletes from different nations, particularly in the current geopolitical climate.
By making this declaration, Wimbledon has an opportunity to set a precedent for fostering positive sportsmanship and ensuring that all players feel valued and supported.
Support for Svitolina’s Proposal:
Svitolina’s proposal has garnered support from fellow players, tennis enthusiasts, and advocates of sportsmanship.
Many have expressed their agreement with the initiative, acknowledging that it can help create a more inclusive and harmonious environment for all participants at Wimbledon.
Elina Svitolina’s call for Wimbledon to announce the exclusion of handshakes between Russian, Belarusian, and Ukrainian players serves as a reminder of the importance of respect and unity in the world of sports. By addressing the incident involving Victoria Azarenka and taking proactive measures to prevent potential conflicts, Svitolina and other advocates hope to contribute to a more inclusive and fair tennis community. Wimbledon’s response to this request will have a lasting impact on the promotion of sportsmanship and the well-being of athletes from diverse backgrounds.
