The decision means, among other things, that superstars such as Russian Daniil Medvedev and Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka will be welcomed to the grass classic in London.

"We will accept Russian and Belarusian athletes as long as they compete as neutral," the organizer wrote in a statement.

Furthermore, the organizer writes that players are allowed to participate if they meet certain conditions, including not expressing support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Players who are in any way funded by Russia or Belarus (including sponsorship from the countries) are still stopped.

'Continues to condemn'

The All England Club, which organises the tournament, also announces that they held talks with the British government before the decision was made.

"This was an incredibly difficult decision, which has not been taken lightly or without much consideration for those affected by it," said Ian Hewitt, president of the All England Club.

"We continue to condemn the Russian illegal invasion and our wholehearted support remains with the Ukrainian people."

Hewitt also announces that they can take new measures if the situation changes.

The IOC opened

The decision comes in the same week that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has reopened the door to a Russian and Belarusian return to sport.

Tennis stands out as one of the few sports that has not completely shut down athletes from these countries. The Davis Cup and Billie Jean Cup team competitions have been exceptions, as have Wimbledon in the past.

That led to a conflict with the ATP and WTA Tours which did not award any ranking points to the players at Wimbledon.

Wimbledon will be played between July 3 and 16.

ARCHIVE: Strong reactions against the IOC after the Olympics announcement (1/2)

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Strong reactions against the IOC after the Olympics announcement