Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has sharply criticized the International Olympic Committee's decision to allow Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flag, calling it "very sad and very painful" as Russia's war against Ukraine continues.
The IOC had recommended a ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes since 2022, but last week it reversed course for Belarus, saying restrictions are no longer recommended. Belarus has been used as a staging ground for Russia's invasion.
Svitolina, who has boycotted handshakes with Russian and Belarusian opponents throughout the conflict, told reporters in Rome, "Rockets are still going to Ukraine. Those two countries are still considered aggressors."
While banned from team events, Russian and Belarusian tennis players have competed as neutrals on professional tours. The International Tennis Federation said the IOC announcement does not change its suspensions of their federations, but Belarus's membership will be considered in October.