Unfair to ban Russian and Belarusian players from Wimbledon: Rafael Nadal

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal thinks that Russian and Belarusian players have struggled after being banned from Wimbledon, which starts June 27. The world No. 4 feels that the players are playing. should not be punished amid the political tension surrounding the invasion of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the suspension means that top stars like Daniil Medvedev or Aryna Sabalenka will not be able to participate in the prestigious tournament. However, Nadal, 35, says that following the rules set by the government is a must and one cannot avoid it.

‘Let’s see what happens’

“I think that’s very unfair to my Russian tennis colleagues, my colleagues. In that sense, it’s not their fault, what is happening at this point with the fight. “, Nadal told reporters at the Madrid Open on Sunday, May 1.

“Let’s see what happens in the coming weeks, if the players are going to make certain decisions… one thing is negative, there are obvious things. When the government imposes some restrictions, you just have to obey them,” he said.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray was limited on which side to take, but did not pay attention to the Russian and Belarusian players.

“I’m not sure how comfortable I would feel if something happened to one of the players or their family (due to signing the application). I don’t think there’s a right answer,” Murray said. .

“I feel really bad for the players who aren’t allowed to play and I understand that it doesn’t seem fair to them,” he added.

As far as Nadal is concerned, the 21 Grand Slam winner will return to Madrid after suffering a rib injury earlier this year. He says his fitness is “far from perfect” as he sets clear goals for the upcoming French Open. Nadal has won the Roland Garros 13 times.