Russians Create Tensions In Locker Room According To Krejcikova
WTASunday, 16 April 2023 at 07:30
Updated at Tuesday, 12 August 2025 at 12:37
Barbora Krejcikova openly admitted that in her mind, some Russian players are contributing to the ongoing tensions on the WTA Tour.
The War in Ukraine affects those close to it the most, yet its echo is felt all around the world. Russians and Ukrainians face a similar dilemma, but their underlying sentiments differ.
More and more players have spoken about the palpable tensions in the WTA locker room between Russian and Ukrainian players, and Barbora Krejcikova added her name to the list. Speaking to Ukrainian media in Antalya, she admitted that the tensions are felt.
"Yes, I feel it. On both sides. But there are some Russians who create it. They don't speak publicly, but we see what they do in the locker room. Personally, I try to avoid them."
The words of Krejcikova are powerful, yet they are unverifiable to those outside of the locker room. Nobody knows what really goes on in the locker room, but it's hard to imagine that Krejcikova would imply something false.
No prominent WTA player publicly backed Russia, with most adopting a pragmatic and peaceful attitude. Some, like Iga Swiatek, were open in their support of the Ukrainian side, with Petra Kvitova adding her name to the list of supporters.
Her compatriot Krejcikova also cemented her support for Ukraine, revealing it's always been there, from the start.
"I have been in contact with them since the beginning of the war. At the very beginning, I wrote to them to find out if everything was okay with them, if I could help in any way. I tried to support them. I know what is happening at home, I follow the news."
Similar to what Kvitova said, Krejcikova also feels like the prestige of the Olympics should not be tainted by the presence of countries that wage war or openly support it.
It's not a new precedent either, as countries were banned from the competition before, and Krejcikova feels like it should happen again.
"I think that the Olympics have always been a celebration of friendship and peace. And if the country is waging an aggressive war, then it clearly does not respect these ideals. Anyone who supports an attack on a neighboring country has no place at the Olympics."
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