The controversy grows in world tennis: Nadal and Djokovic defend the tennis players banned from Wimbledon

With the start of the Madrid Masters 1000, the best tennis players in the world once again gave press conferences and interviews. A situation that inevitably led them to speak and comment on the biggest controversy facing the world of white sport in recent times: the banning of Russian and Belarusian tennis players from Wimbledon.

And two of the most successful tennis players in history have already given their opinion on the matter. Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic expressed their dissatisfaction with the measure , with the Spaniard even saying that even the players together could make a ‘decision on this’. Statements made in the middle of Rumors that ATP and WTA could take points at UK event .

A story that began on April 20 when the All England Club issued a statement announcing the ban on Russian and Belarusian tennis players from playing the third Grand Slam of the season. A measure which caused an earthquake in tennis, but which was adopted by the British Tennis Federation, extending this determination to the tournaments of Queen’s, Nottingham, Birmingham and Eastbourne. All events before Wimbledon.

Around the Caja Mágica, one of the hottest topics is the veto issued by the British Open. Every time a tennis player sits down in a press room, questions about the situation multiply. Make it inevitable that they take a stand.

That’s why Rafael Nadal immediately addressed the issue. “This is very unfair to my colleagues. What fault do they have for what is happening with the war? I feel sorry for them and wish it wasn’t like this, but in the end we know it is what it is. Let’s see if we make any decision on that.” began by saying the Balearic, who returns to court after a month-long injury due to a fracture to one of his ribs.

In the same vein, he deepened that unfortunately only the tournament is the one that can suspend this decision. “When the government puts measures in place, they must be followed. In this case, Wimbledon makes this decision without having to make it. The ‘Grand Slams’ are the tournaments that we score the most. We will have to see what measures will be taken. It’s a very unfair thing for them.” closed the winner of 21 majors.

But the Spaniard wasn’t the only one to comment on this fact. Novak Djokovic, who had already questioned the measure during the ATP in Belgrade, charged again against Wimbledon, even giving a possible solution to the problem. “I still think I can’t stand the situation, I think it’s not fair. Probably the most realistic solution is to protect the points of the Russian and Belarusian players who won’t play. But Wimbledon and the Grand Slams are tournaments that mean more than earning 2,000 ranking points.” Nole added.

In addition, the world number one announced that the professional tennis association could take measures. “It’s not an easy situation for Russian players. It’s one of the biggest tournaments, if not the biggest in the world. It’s tough, I understand there is frustration, I think that the ATP will analyze the situation to see what can be done.” advancement.

The ATP and WTA have been clear on their position ahead of the veto of the world’s most important tournament with players from the country invading Ukraine. “Discrimination based on nationality is also a violation of our agreements “, charged the organizers the same day the news was made public. A declaration of principles, which could lead to sanctions never seen before.

This, since various sources have announced that the two organizations will meet this week to consider withdrawing all points from the English tournament . A measure that would transform Wimbledon into an almost exhibition event, where the only value would be to add a Grand Slam to the showcase. The 2000 units it delivers would be an anecdote for this year.

Steve Simon, president of the ATP, had already anticipated this a few weeks ago. “These decisions are a violation of Grand Slam and WTA rules. We have formally advised you of our position, reserving the right to impose appropriate sanctions, which may include withdrawal of ranking points awarded at Wimbledon or fines. “, he threatened.

Remember that according to the rules stipulated between the ATP, the WTA and the Grand Slams, it is specified that the participation of players is based solely on their ranking in the world rankings.