Australian Open white flag: Why are players playing under it?

The Australian Open is about to begin, as tennis players from all over the world vie to take out one of tennis’ most coveted titles. 

But being a worldwide event means that the Open must navigate international politics, which includes the continued Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

This is not the first time that this conflict has influenced the tennis world; Wimbledon famously banned Russian and Belarusian players from competing in 2022, including Danill Medvedev, who was at the time the world No. 1.

While the Australian Open has not gone to these lengths, it has designated that certain players be required to play under a white flag, rather than the flag of their nation. 

Why are athletes competing under a white flag?

For the second year in a row, the Australian Open has said that while there will be no restrictions on Russian and Belarusian tennis players competing, they will be unable to compete under the flag or name of their countries, including on their clothes and on the broadcast. 

“Players from Russia and Belarus are only able to compete in international tennis events as individuals – and without flags or country recognition – which will be the case for Australian Open 2023,” Tennis Australia said via a statement before the 2023 edition of the event.

“Tennis Australia stands united with the international governing bodies of tennis - the grand slams, the ATP and WTA Tours and the ITF - in its condemnation of Russia’s actions and its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

“The governing bodies of tennis issued a statement in March 2022 expressing shock, distress and sadness, along with a pledge to provide ongoing support for the people of Ukraine.”

Which athletes are affected?

This decision affects several high-level players, including top 20 men's players Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, and Karen Khachanov, and top 20 women's players Aryna Sabalenka, Liudmila Samsonova, Daria Kasatkina, and Veronika Kudermetova.