The Australian Tennis Federation forbade fans in the stands of the stands to demonstrate Russian and Belarusian flags during the Australian Open Championship (Australian Open), reports Associated Press.
On Monday, during the match between the Russian Camilla Rakhimova and the Ukrainian Katerina Bayndl, the fans in the stands deployed the flag of the Russian Federation. After that, Ukrainian viewers turned to the protection and police.
As a result, the Australian Federation issued a statement that the Russian and Belarusian flags are prohibited on the Australian Open areas.
“We will continue to work with players and our fans to ensure the best conditions for enjoying tennis,” the statement said.
Earlier, the Australian Tennis Federation responded with a refusal to disqualify athletes from Russia and Belarus. They are allowed to act in a neutral status.
Australian Open will last until January 29th.