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WTA Threatens Fines for Naming Russian Players, Ukrainian Athlete Claims

5/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Oleksandra Oliynykova said the Women’s Tennis Association threatened her with fines of thousands of dollars for naming Russian and Belarusian players.
She posted the claim on Instagram on April 28, accusing the tour of arbitrarily applying its rules.
A WTA spokesperson said the tour condemns Russia’s war, supports Ukrainian athletes and handles conduct concerns through established processes.

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Story summary

Oleksandra Oliynykova said the Women’s Tennis Association threatened her with fines of thousands of dollars for naming Russian and Belarusian players.
She posted the claim on Instagram on April 28, accusing the tour of arbitrarily applying its rules.
A WTA spokesperson said the tour condemns Russia’s war, supports Ukrainian athletes and handles conduct concerns through established processes.