The Spanish flag was incorrectly connected to Daria Kasatkina’s identify in the course of the Abu Dhabi principal draw ceremony, which prompted the Russian tennis participant’s administration to strongly deny that she was switching to representing Spain as a result of it may probably trigger her issues again house.
After the draw for the WTA 500 match in Abu Dhabi was launched, followers observed one attention-grabbing factor.
Abu Dhabi draw© X screenshot
Contemplating that Kasatkina overtly spoke out in opposition to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and likewise got here out as homosexual in 2022, it did not take lengthy earlier than some began assuming that she determined to cease representing Russia.
Additionally, it needs to be talked about that she resides in Dubai and sometimes holds coaching classes in Barcelona.
Since 2022 March, Russian and Belarusian gamers have been taking part in as “neutrals” on the ATP and WTA Excursions.
“This carries some strong implications for Daria if the Russian authorities feel she is trying to switch—which she is not. We can categorically deny she is switching to Spain,” the 27-year-old’s spokesperson stated.
The Abu Dhabi Open organizers additionally issued a press release, confirming it was a mistake and apologizing to the world No. 11.
“We sincerely apologize for the error made by one of our suppliers during the live draw, whereby an incorrect nationality was shown alongside the name of Daria Kasatkina. This was entirely an administrative mistake and has now been corrected,” the match stated in a press release.
Kasatkina hasn’t gone to Russia in years as a result of she feels it might be ‘unsafe’
After the Russian tennis star known as out her authorities but additionally revealed her sexual orientation, a Russian politician wished her to be listed as “a foreign agent.”
Whereas the request wasn’t granted, the previous world No. 8 did not need to danger something and check out visiting her nation.
“It’s unsafe for me now, with the regime we have. As a gay person who opposes the war, it’s not possible to go back. But I don’t regret it even 1 percent;” the 27-year-old advised The Sunday Occasions in mid-2023.
In the meantime, Kasatkina is ready to play in opposition to Ashlyn Krueger within the Abu Dhabi first spherical.
