Belarusian Victoria Azarenka is not going to play on this week’s Tennis Performs for Peace exhibition in New York “given sensitivities to Ukrainian gamers” and the continued warfare of their nation.
Tennis Performs for Peace is “supporting the humanitarian reduction efforts” after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Belarusian chief Alexander Lukashenko is a key ally of Russia.
Russian and Belarusian gamers have been banned from Wimbledon however are capable of compete at subsequent month’s US Open.
Asserting Azarenka’s withdrawal, the US Tennis Affiliation (USTA) mentioned there had been “cautious consideration and dialogue with all events”.
It added: “Vika is a robust participant chief and we respect her willingness to take part.
“Given the sensitivities to Ukrainian gamers, and the continued battle, we imagine that is the appropriate plan of action for us.”
The Tennis Performs for Peace initiative – organised by tennis’ governing our bodies and its 4 Grand Slam tournaments – has to date raised greater than $1m (£850,000).
Rafael Nadal, Iga Swiatek and John McEnroe are amongst those that will play within the exhibition on the Louis Armstrong Stadium.
