The decision to allow individual Russian athletes to participate in the Olympics, with certain reservations, has received a lot of criticism.

"The decision to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to hide behind a fake neutrality is irresponsible," Ukrainian Sports Minister Matviy Bidny said.

But world number 11 Casper Ruud, who has faced Russians on the ATP Tour in recent years, stands behind the decision.

"It's difficult and sensitive. But I have been very open and positive about them being allowed to participate on the ATP tour. They are playing without flags and have publicly said that they are against the war," he said.

In the Olympics, he could face stars Daniil Medvedev and Andrei Rublev.

"They represent themselves more than a country in many ways. In many ways, I think it would have been unfair if they had not been allowed to participate. I don't mind," Ruud said.

CLIP: Three questions about: Russia allowed to participate in the Olympics

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Photo: SVT/TT News Agency