The Australian Open is back for 2025, with the world’s best players vying to take out one of tennis’ most coveted titles.
As a worldwide event, the tournament must navigate international politics, which includes the ongoing Russian-Ukraine war.
While Russian and Belarusian players can continue to compete, organisers have designated that certain players cannot play under a flag, with a blank space visible across various scoreboards.
Why are tennis players competing under a blue flag?
For the fourth year in a row, the Australian Open has said that while there will be no restrictions on Russian and Belarusian tennis players competing, they will be unable to compete under the flag or name of their countries, including on their clothes and via the broadcast.
Previously, the ‘neutral flag’ was a white colour. However, because of a new scoreboard design, the flag has been a blue colour since 2024.
“Players from Russia and Belarus are only able to compete in international tennis events as individuals – and without flags or country recognition – which will be the case for Australian Open 2023,” Tennis Australia said via a statement before the 2023 event.
“Tennis Australia stands united with the international governing bodies of tennis – the grand slams, the ATP and WTA Tours and the ITF – in its condemnation of Russia’s actions and its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.”
Which athletes are affected?
This decision affects several high-level players, including top 20 men’s players Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev and Karen Khachanov, as well as top 20 women’s players Aryna Sabalenka, Daria Kasatkina, Diana Shnaider, Anna Kalinskaya and Mirra Andreeva.