Sabalenka Hopes Wimbledon 2023 Will Be More Open To Russian Tennis Players, But...

Aryna Sabalenka (Instagram @sabalenka_aryna)

JAKARTA - World number five Aryna Sabalenka hopes organizer Wimbledon will be "a little more open" to the idea of allowing Belarus and Russia to play in the 2023 edition.

The Belarusian tennis player who is also the semifinalist of the tournament in 2021 is one of several high-ranking players banned from playing at Wimbledon after the All England Club imposed a ban on Russian and Belarusian players in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"I think I have no control over this situation. I'm just sitting and waiting for a decision. And whatever happens, it happens," Sabalenka said as reported by Antara via AFP, Wednesday.

"If they're going to ban us for another year, okay, whatever, I'm going to have fun at home in Miami, I'm going to spend time with my family and do pre-season again."

"Whatever they decide, it's their decision. I don't care about Wimbledon."

Asked if he was optimistic the All England Club would overturn its decision, the 24-year-old said "I really hope they will be a little more open to us."

"But as shown last year, they weren't very happy with the Belarusians and the Russians on their show," Sabalenka said.

Earlier, England's number one Cameron Norrie said he wanted to see Russia and Belarus welcomed back in the tournament.

"For me, I want the best players in the world to play," said Norrie, ranked 14, semifinalist for Wimbledon 2022.

"I feel last year was very difficult for them, especially for Daniil (Madvedev) and Andrey (Rublev), who had a chance to win Wimbledon, especially as I know how much those people sacrificed with their careers and their goal is clearly very high to win Slam."

"So I really feel bad for them," said Norrie.

According to British media, the decision from the All England Club on the matter is expected to be made in April with competition starting on July 3.