London | ATP relent on two events

The ATP, having threatened to withdraw ranking points from British events following the decision by the AELTC and LTA to ban Russian and Belarussian players from this year’s touraments, have announced this week that they would not be doing so with regard to Queen’s and Eastbourne, but the possibility is still on the table for Wimbledon.

While the ban was received with outrage by the player organisations, the £40million prize fund remains an attractive incentive for them to play The Championships and it seems more than likely that it will retain its ranking points despite it still being under review.

“This season’s ATP Tour events in Queen’s and Eastbourne will proceed as normal, offering full ATP rankings points,” the ATP said in their statement following meetings in Rome last weekend.

“LTA’s decision to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes is however contrary to ATP rules and undermines the ability for players of any nationality to enter tournaments based on merit, without discrimination – a fundamental principle of the ATP Tour.

“Sanctions related to LTA’s violation of ATP rules will now be assessed separately under ATP governance. ATP’s response to Wimbledon’s decision remains under review, with more to be communicated in due course.”

Meanwhile the WTA is expected to make their decision soon on their events in Birmingham, Nottingham and Eastbourne, but will likely fall in line with the ATP.