Elena Rybakina was born in Russia, meaning she is often asked about Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. In a recent press conference at Wimbledon. she said she wanted the war to end as soon as possible.
Rybakina's tennis has made headlines throughout the 2022 Wimbledon Championships. After an extremely impressive run on the grass courts in London, she is set to face Simona Halep in the semifinals.
The first set of her quarterfinal victory against Ajla Tomljanovic is the only set she has dropped at the tournament. Her other wins were against Coco Vandeweghe, Bianca Andreescu, Qinwen Zheng, Petra Martic, and Ajla Tomljanovic.
Rybakina officially represents Kazakhstan as a player. She played for Russia until 2018 when she switched allegiances to the Central Asian country due to the funding and support Kazakhstan was willing to offer her.
However, Rybakina being born in Russia has made journalists interested in her thoughts about the country's war against Ukraine, launched in February of this year. Her run at Wimbledon has only increased this interest from reporters.
When asked about it during a press conference, Rybakina said she wanted the war to end. She also reminded reporters that she represents Kazakhstan and is grateful for the support the country has given her.
“I just want the war to end as soon as possible and peace. I was born in Russia, but of course I am representing Kazakhstan. It’s already a long journey for me. I was playing Olympics, Fed Cup before. I got so much help and support. I’m feeling just the support of the people and very happy to represent Kazakhstan because I think I’m also bringing some results, which are very good for the sport in Kazakhstan.”
It is challenging for Russian-born players like Rybakina to be asked about the war. The 23-year-old seems to be opposed to it but also does not want to say too much since she has family members in Russia and may fear retribution from the country's government.
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