A WTA broadcast sparked controversy as it showed a Russia flag alongside a player’s name during a match.
Russian athletes have been allowed to compete on the WTA and ATP Tours since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine four years ago.
A Russian flag appeared during a WTA broadcastCredit: WTA Tour
As per policy, however, they have not done so under their national flag.
Slots that flags would typically occupy during broadcasts have instead been left blank.
On Monday, a screenshot was posted to X during the match between American Alycia Parks and Russian Oksana Selekhmeteva in Austin.
The screenshot showed a Russia flag next to Selekhmeteva’s name and was captioned by a social media user: “WTA is bringing back the Russian flag.”
SunSport understands that the Russian flag appeared on the broadcast by mistake, and that the WTA’s policy has not changed regarding Russian and Belarusian signage.
Russian players were banned from participating at and at LTA-run events in 2022.
None of the sport’s other governing bodies followed suit, however, and UK events reversed their stance the following year after receiving outside pressure to do so.
Several Ukrainian athletes have been outspoken regarding Russian participation.
Former Wimbledon semi-finalist Elina Svitolina claimed in 2022 that Russian players that don’t “speak up” against their government should be banned from participating.
It has become customary for players from Ukraine to not shake hands with Russians or Belarusians after matches.
Ukrainian star Oleksandra Oliynykova following her round one defeat at the last month.
After her defeat to then-reigning champion Madison Keys, Oliynykova turned up to her press conference wearing a T-shirt that read: “I need your help to protect Ukrainian women and children but I can’t talk about it here.”
She then poignantly spoke of her father, a soldier in the Ukrainian army, adding: “He is my biggest supporter and has been since childhood.
“I’m so proud of him and that’s something that’s keeping me motivated even more.
“After he joined the military, I have improved my ranking over 200 places.
“I know it was his dream to see me on this court and I would do everything to make him proud.”
Oleksandra Oliynykova made a powerful statement at the Australian OpenCredit: YouTube/Australian Open
Elina Svitolina has been an inspiring figure on the WTA TourCredit: AFP
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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