The Australian Open is nearing the pointy end, with the world’s best players vying to take out one of tennis’ most coveted titles.
But being a worldwide event means that the Open must navigate international politics, which includes the ongoing Russian-Ukraine war.
This is not the first time that this conflict has influenced the tennis world; Wimbledon famously banned Russian and Belarusian players from competing in 2022 including Danill Medvedev, who was at the time the world No. 1.
While the Australian Open has not gone to these lengths, it has designated that certain players cannot play under a flag, with a blank space visible on the scoreboard.
Why are tennis players competing under a blue flag?
For the third year in a row, the Australian Open has said that while there will be no restrictions on Russian and Belarusian tennis players competing, they will be unable to compete under the flag or name of their countries, including on their clothes and via the broadcast.
Last year, the ‘neutral flag’ was a white colour, but because of a new scoreboard design, the flag is a blue colour in 2024.
“Players from Russia and Belarus are only able to compete in international tennis events as individuals – and without flags or country recognition – which will be the case for Australian Open 2023,” Tennis Australia said via a statement before last year’s event.
“Tennis Australia stands united with the international governing bodies of tennis – the grand slams, the ATP and WTA Tours and the ITF – in its condemnation of Russia’s actions and its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.”
Which athletes are affected?
This decision affects several high-level players, including top 20 men’s players Daniil Medvedev, and Andrey Rublev and top 20 women’s players Aryna Sabalenka and Veronika Kudermetova.