Latushka called for Aryna Sabalenka to be suspended from all WTA-sanctioned tournaments
The reason was an emotional remark made by the Belarusian tennis player, apparently directed at her Ukrainian opponent.
Photo: Volha Shukaila / SOPA / Images LightRocket via Getty Images
Politician Pavel Latushka commented on the behavior of tennis player Aryna Sabalenka on the court.
“Absolutely unacceptable behavior by Belarusian tennis player Aryna Sabalenka! Aryna has not condemned the war of aggression against Ukraine, the mass repressions against Belarusians, has not spoken out in support of releasing political prisoners, even women, and now she is insulting Ukrainians, against whom a war of extermination is being waged. She must be suspended from all WTA-sanctioned tournaments. This is the only proportionate response to such behavior. She is a disgrace to the Belarusian people,” Latushka wrote sharing his opinion on X.
As a reminder, in a match at the WTA Finals 2026, Sabalenka lost to Ukrainian Elina Svitolina. Sabalenka finished third in her group and exits the tournament.
During the match, Sabalenka apparently directed profanities toward the Ukrainian tennis player after her defeat. Her voice is not audible, but lip-reading suggests the phrase sounded like “f*cking Ukrainian b*tch, f*ck.”