World No. 25 Griekspoor urged not to play in Russian exhibition by Dutch government

Friday, 28 November 2025 at 21:59

byJordan Reynolds

Politics and sport have come together again after Tallon Griekspoor was asked to reconsider his decision to play at an exhibition in Russia.

Since February 2022, ATP and WTA events have not been held in Russia because of the country's illegal invasion of Ukraine. That war continues, but some are hopeful that a peace deal will finally be reached.

Russian and Belarusian players have also played under neutral banners. Belarus's government has enthusiastically supported Russia's actions in Ukraine since the invasion was launched close to four years ago.

An exhibition in St Petersburg, Russia, is scheduled from November 29th to 30th. Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Bublik, Karen Khachanov, and Diana Shnaider are among the Russian-born players who have committed to the event.

However, some from outside the country are also on the entry list. That includes Griekspoor, who has been one of the Netherlands' most prominent players in recent years. His achievements include overcoming Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Shanghai Masters when he began cramping in the third set.

Griekspoor's decision drew criticism from his home government. David van Weel, the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the players' decision was not illegal, but believes it is morally indefensible.

"It is not forbidden to participate in tournaments in Russia, but I do call on him not to do so. Consider the moral aspects."

The situation also drew an announcement from the Dutch Tennis Federation, which said it communicated its position to Griekspoor while reiterating that the three-time ATP titlist is entitled to play in Russia if he wishes.

"We have been in contact with Griekspoor to inform him of the KNLTB’s position. At the same time, players are free to make their own choices and considerations regarding participation in competitions and tournaments in Russia. In this case, Griekspoor made that decision independently; the KNLTB is not involved."

Griekspoor would be making a very late decision if he had a change of heart. That seems highly unlikely at this stage, meaning the Dutchman will have to accept being unpopular with Ukrainian colleagues.

Ukrainian players have strong opinions amid ongoing war against their country

Several Ukrainian stars do not think that Russian and Belarusian players competing under neutral banners since Russia's illegal invasion goes far enough, considering the suffering their compatriots are enduring.

Marta Kostyuk and Elina Svitolina have called for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from sports until Russia withdraws its forces from Ukraine. Ukrainians also do not shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players.

Kostyuk explained why she shook hands with Russian-born Daria Kasatkina before a match earlier this season. Kasatkina has criticized Russia's invasion of Ukraine and switched allegiances to Australia, something Kostyuk believed deserved respect.

Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian-born WTA world No. 1, is among those who think politics and sport should never mix. She believes sport should instead be used to bring people together, regardless of who they are.

Many agree with Sabalenka's opinion, but others believe it does not show a proper understanding of the devastation Russia's actions in Ukraine have caused.