The latest reports have confirmed that Brittney Griner, who has been in the news due to her captivity in Russia, has landed on American soil after ten long months. While her return has been met with relief all over the country, it has opened up more issues regarding US-Russia relations. Griner’s release elevates the concern of Paul Whelan, who has been stuck in the country since 2018. Among a range of opinions from netizens, golf Hall of Famer, Judy Rankin, expressed her bitterness for Whelan’s situation, while being delighted with Griner’s discharge.

Judy Rankin describes Griner and Whelan’s situation

Now a celebrated and renowned lead analyst for LPGA Tour telecasts, Rankin was up-to-date with the talks for the release of Griner. The WNBA player was delegated to the US in exchange for the Russian arms dealer, Viktor Bout, also called the “Merchant of Death.”

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Like everyone else in the country, Rankin rejoiced at Griner’s arrival, claiming she should have been at home much before. But in the same tweet, she was pitiful about Whelan’s situation, stating her “heart hurts” for him. Check out the tweet below.

Rankin isn’t a frequent critic of diplomatic relations, but she’s been a constant voice in women’s golf for years. She joined the LPGA Tour as a 17-year-old back in 1962 and walloped her way to 26 Tour victories. The 77-year-old was inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame in 2000.

Why was Brittney Griner detained in Russia?

Griner was convicted of drug smuggling charges on arrival in Russia at the beginning of this year. What followed was an extensive ordeal into getting her back across the Atlantic, which was met with huge public support and media attention.

While Griner eventually made it through, Paul Whelan still finds himself in Russia’s territory. The former Marine who became a corporate security executive was detained in a hotel in Moscow on the account of spying. He was convicted of espionage on June 2020, which the US government has repelled.

The US diplomats tried hard to get both Griner and Whelan back to their home country but failed to get the latter in the exchange. With Griner’s release ultimately becoming a reality, Whelan’s freedom might only be a matter of time.