Russian Tennis Federation President Shamil Tarpischev Has a Cheeky Response on Wimbledon Ranking Points Snub

Recently, the tennis governing bodies for both men’s and women’s tennis (ATP & WTA) have penalized Wimbledon for its decision to ban Russian and Belarusian players, by stripping ranking points from the tournament this year.

The president of the currently suspended Russian Tennis Federation Shamil Tarpischev has welcomed the decision. Notably, since Wimbledon has banned Russian and Belarusian players, Shamil Tarpischev has been actively vocal against it. Recently, Shamil called out the players in support of the ban. Also, he thanked the ones who expressed their disappointment on the same. Now he has also reacted to the stripping ranking points from the grasscourt tournament.

Shamil Tarpischev reacts to Wimbledon getting stripped of ranking points

Shamil Tarpischev has lauded tennis governing bodies ATP and WTA for standing with the athletes and taking action against the unfair treatment by Wimbledon.

“It’s very nice that the organization (ATP/WTA/ITF) is on the interest of athletes,” he said.

Notably, the former Russian tennis player has earlier thanked the likes of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. For publicly calling out Wimbledon regarding the ban. Also, he said that support from the top players is always needed and the federation is thankful to those who came out in support.

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However, the stripping of points will turn the most prestigious tennis tournament into a mere exhibition. Although the top players might still be willing to take part in it. Given the popularity of the tournament. Not to forget the attractive prize money the winners are going to earn. Although the ones affected by the decision will be players who performed well at last year’s edition. As they cannot defend their points. The decision will surely make a huge impact on the rankings.

What do ATP and WTA statements say?

In their separate statements, the tennis governing bodies cited the ban imposed by Wimbledon as the main reason for the action. Both the governing bodies have termed the ban as discrimination based on nationality and condemned the decision.

The WTA Chairman and CEO Steve Simon said that “The stance we are taking is about protecting the equal opportunities that WTA players should have to compete as individuals.” 

Also, ATP, in a similar official statement, said: “Discrimination by individual tournaments is simply not viable on a Tour that operates in more than 30 countries.”

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The governing bodies and organizers of Wimbledon are firm in their decision. And the only ones suffering due to it will be the players.