Russian tennis star Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova condemns her country’s invasion of Ukraine
epa09259900 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia reacts after winning her women's singles semifinal against Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros in Paris, France, 10 June 2021. EPA-EFE/YOAN VALAT
Russian tennis star Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova has condemned her country’s invasion of Ukraine, saying she is not afraid to declare her position as she calls for an end to the violence.
She has joined a host of sports stars who has condemned the invasion which has entered day six and has resulted in the loss of over 100 civilian lives including seven children according to the United Nations.
The Russian No 1 took to social media to express her opinion in what is a big call, especially coming from Vladimir Putin’s own people and joining another Russian star Andrey Rublev who called for peace following his semi-final victory against Hubert Hurkacz in Dubai.
“I’ve been playing tennis since I was a kid. I have represented Russia all my life. This is my home and my country. But now I am in complete fear, as are my friends and family. But I am not afraid to clearly state my position. I am against war and violence.
“Personal ambitions or political motives cannot justify violence. This takes away the future not only from us but also from our children. I am confused and do not know how to help in this situation.
“I’m just an athlete who plays tennis. I am not a politician, not a public figure, I have no experience in this. ‘I can only publicly disagree with these decisions taken and openly talk about it.
“Stop the violence, stop the war.”
