Why does politics have to pollute sporting events?
Srianee Dias
Mirra Andreeva won the women’s singles title at the French Open yesterday (6.6.2026). She is Russian but was competing as a ‘neutral’ athlete. She reached the finals after defeating Marta Kostyuk from Ukraine in the semifinals. After losing the match, Kostyuk ignored Andreeva and walked over to shake the umpire’s hand. She chose to play against Andreeva, but like several other Ukrainian players, chose not to shake the hand of her Russian opponent. It is difficult these days to entirely eliminate politics from sports, but it is my opinion that when players choose to compete in an event, they should act graciously towards their opponents in a sportsmanlike fashion. The athletes are not responsible for the political conflict.
In the finals, Mirra Andreeva defeated Maja Chwelinska of Poland 6-3, 6-2 to claim the title. She was congratulated warmly by Chwelinska. Andreeva is only 19 years old, and this is her first Grand Slam title, although she won two major championships in 2025. She is the youngest winner of the French Open since Monica Seles won in 1992, when she was 18. Andreeva has personality, charm and a sense of humour. She is a refreshing change from grumpy Aryna Sabalenka, who is currently ranked No 1.
Sabalenka is from Belarus. She and Andreeva have. been banned from competing in international events under their national flags. This decision against the Russian and Belarusian athletes was made by the International Tennis Federation in 2022 when it suspended the Russian Tennis Federation and the Belarusian Tennis Association from all 4 major tournaments, as well as team competition (Davis Cup and the Billie Jean King Cup), following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. To her credit, Sabalenka has not renounced her nationality, unlike some other athletes. I applaud her for that decision, because it probably cost her some lucrative endorsements. I think it is unfair for hardworking athletes to be penalised for the decisions made by politicians in their respective countries.
In the past, we’ve seen many similar situations. South African athletes were prevented from competing in international events for many years because of the South African government’s apartheid policies. I am told that the Pakistani and Indian cricket players do not shake hands with each other, even though they play against each other.
The FIFA World Cup is just beginning with matches being held Canada, USA and Mexico. Iran’s national team, Team Melli, has qualified to play, but the team is being hampered by visa problems being experienced by their players and officials. I read that Tehran has now arranged for the Iranian team to be based in Tijuana, Mexico rather than in Arizona, USA.
Sporting events can play a role in bridging the existing hostilities between nations. The athletes are heroes in their home countries. Any positive experience they have during the competitions will carry over to their fans at home.
Many athletes have also used their
voices and influence outside their sporting careers. Billy Jean King and Megan Rapinoe have fought
for equal pay for female athletes. Wilma Rudolph, Muhammad Ali and Kareem Abdul
Jabbar were very active in the Civil Rights Movement. Lewis Hamilton has been championing diveristy
in F1 racing. They have that privilege
and freedom, but it is my opinion that these activities should be separated
from the actual sports competitions. The
sporting events should be confined to the sport, and politics should be set
aside during the competitions.
