ryna Sabalenka refused to attend her post-match press convention on the French Open on Friday, insisting she was defending her psychological wellbeing.
Belarus’ Sabalenka was concerned in a tetchy alternate with a Ukrainian journalist relating to the continued invasion earlier within the week.
And after beating Kamilla Rakhimova, she was given particular dispensation by French Open officers to not communicate to the broader media. Normally gamers from the ATP and WTA Tours who don't attend their post-match press conferences are hit with a five-figure fantastic.
Instead, she gave an interview to small choose group of journalists wherein she mentioned: “After my match I spoke with the media like I normally do. I know they still expect some questions that are more about the politics and not so much about my tennis.
“For many months now, I have answered these questions at tournaments and been very clear in my feelings and my thoughts. These questions do not bother me after my matches.
“I know that I have to provide answers to the media on things not related to my tennis or my matches but, on Wednesday, I did not feel safe in press conference. I should be able to feel safe when I do interviews with the journalists after my matches.
“For my own wellbeing, I have decided to take myself out of this situation today and the tournament has supported me in this decision.”
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been backed by the Belarus authorities, with gamers from each international locations sanctioned on the worldwide sporting stage consequently.
The likes of Sabalenka had been banned by Wimbledon from competing finally 12 months’s match however have been allowed to play this summer time by signing a particular contract relating to their behaviour.
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