Sergiy Stakhovsky, the Ukrainian tennis ace, turned pro in the year 2003. He has won 4 singles and 4 doubles career titles and has achieved a career highest ranking of world no.31. Further, caused an abrupt ending to Roger Federer’s record of 36 consecutive quarterfinal runs by defeating him in the 2nd round of the 2013 Wimbledon championship. Thus marking an end to his record and snatching Federer’s dream of defending his title at Wimbledon that year.

Currently, Sergiy is serving in the Ukrainian army to protect his homeland. Although he is outspoken about tennis and its entities’ involvement and contribution to the conflict. This time it’s different, as his friend Rafael Nadal failed his expectations.

Sergiy Stakhovsky Feels Betrayed

Rafael Nadal recently spoke about Wimbledon’s ban on Russian and Belarusian players. However, to Sergiy’s dismay, Rafa sang in the same tune as Djokovic and condemned Wimbledon’s actions. He said, “I think it’s very unfair to my Russian tennis mates, my colleagues. In that sense, it’s not their fault what’s happening in this moment with the war.”

To which the Ukrainian replied by saying, “we competed together.. we’ve played each other on tour. Please tell me how it is fair that Ukrainian players cannot return home? How it is fair that Ukrainian kids cannot play tennis? How is it fair that Ukrainians are dying?”

@RafaelNadal we competed together.. we’ve played each other on tour. Please tell me how it is fair that Ukrainian players cannot return home? How it is fair that Ukrainian kids cannot play tennis? How is it fair that Ukrainians are dying? https://t.co/l3bZtBEfsU

— Sergiy Stakhovsky (@Stako_tennis) May 2, 2022

Wimbledon’s Response to the Backlash

Even though the Wimbledon championship is a widely celebrated event, this year’s tournament reeks of disapproval from many tennis fans and entities. Their actions against Russian and Belarusian players have turned things sour.

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However, Wimbledon stands firm on its decision regardless of the backlash. As Ian Hewitt, the All England Club chairman said, “After lengthy and careful consideration, we came to two firm conclusions. First, even if we were to accept entries, we would risk their success or participation being used to benefit the propaganda.”

“Second, we have a duty to ensure no actions should put players or their families at risk.” He added.

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Further, Wimbledon will celebrate its 100-year anniversary in this year’s championship which will commence in June end and host its finale in the first week of July.