Tennis Star Calls for Attention to Ukraine Crisis

Ukrainian tennis player Lesia Tsurenko has criticized the lack of interest in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war within the tennis world. Tsurenko, who was eliminated from the Australian Open by defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, expressed her frustration that people have lost concern for her country’s plight as the conflict enters its third year. She mentioned that tennis fans get annoyed if she raises awareness about the war on social media, stating that ‘people don’t want to talk about war, people don’t want to hear bad news.’

Tsurenko emphasized the need to continue discussing the war and called for a ban on Russian athletes at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, unless they actively support the war efforts. She criticized Russian and Belarusian players, including Sabalenka, for remaining silent or actively participating in events sponsored by Russian energy company Gazprom. Tsurenko stressed that such actions make them part of the propaganda that harms her country and its people.

Tsurenko regretted losing respect for players who have not condemned Russian actions in Ukraine and highlighted that the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) could have done more to support Ukraine earlier. She also spoke about her psychological struggles in dealing with the impact of the war and the months it took for her to find the right methods to maintain her tennis career amid the ongoing conflict.

In their third-round match, Tsurenko and Sabalenka chose not to shake hands due to Ukrainian policies. Despite their lack of exchange at the end of the match, Sabalenka acknowledged Tsurenko’s respectful behavior and congratulated her on her play.

Sabalenka, the second seed and reigning Australian Open champion, dominated the match with her serve and power, winning 6-0, 6-0 in just 52 minutes. With her strong performance so far, Sabalenka sent a message to her competitors that she is the one to beat in this tournament. She will face American player Amanda Anisimova in the round of 16.

Anisimova has been in good form, not dropping a set in the tournament and currently ranked 442nd in the world. Despite expecting a tough match, Sabalenka expressed her happiness to see Anisimova back in the game and is looking forward to the challenge.