World number two Daniil Medvedev has described the recent news about Ukraine as “very disturbing” that has led to Wimbledon organizers banning him and other Russian players from the tournament. US Open champion Medvedev is set to return to the ATP Tour after five weeks after undergoing a hernia operation.
Asked if Russia was keeping a close eye on Ukraine’s attack when he was not playing, Medvedev said, “I had some time to look at what was happening.” Yes, it is very disturbing. Medvedev had earlier said after Russia’s attack on Ukraine in February that he wanted peace.
Most Olympic Games have banned the Russian team and players from participating in international tournaments, but tennis has allowed players to participate at an individual level, not representative of their country. Wimbledon, however, banned Russian players from participating in the tournament, following a decision by the British government three weeks ago. Medvedev said he would like to play at Wimbledon, starting June 27, if circumstances change. He said, ‘If I can play, I will be happy to play at Wimbledon. I love this tournament.