Victoria Azarenka did not play at a charity event in support of Ukraine at the US Open after players from the country reacted negatively.
Russia illegally invaded Ukraine in February, and the countries have been at war ever since. That development has led to some controversial moments in the world of tennis.
Wimbledon banned Russian and Belarusian players from this year's tournament at SW19, which led to the ATP and WTA Tours responding by not awarding any ranking points at the Grand Slam.
At the recent Cincinnati Open, a woman was removed from the crowd for wearing a Ukrainian flag at a match between two Russian players, despite other fans defending her and saying she was not being disruptive.
The US Open announced an event in support of Ukraine, but controversy arose once again because it planned to include Belarusian player Victoria Azarenka. Belarus' government supports Russia in its war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian players Marta Kostyuk and Lesia Tsurenko initially refused to participate because of Azarenka's involvement. The United States Tennis Association subsequently released a statement reversing the Belarusian's planned participation.
'"In the last 24 hours, after careful consideration and dialogue with all parties involved, Victoria Azarenka will not be participating in our "Tennis Plays for Peace Exhibition" this evening."
"Vika is a strong player and leader and we appreciate her willingness to participate. Given the sensitivities to Ukrainian players and the ongoing conflict, we believe this is the right course of action for us."
Last night, the event was played without Azarenka, and it was a big success because many people came and watched. Matches included a doubles contest between Coco Gauff and John McEnroe and Rafael Nadal and Iga Swiatek.
Azarenka, who has spoken about wanting peace in the Ukraine war, might feel harshly treated, but the feelings of the Ukrainian players are also understandable.
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