KOSTYUK: UK’S RIGHT TO FIGHT

MARTA KOSTYUK says Ukraine is grateful to Wimbledon for its support in the war with Russia.

The All England Club’s banning in April of Russian and Belarussian players from the tournament sparked criticism and eventually saw the ATP and WTA strip ranking points from the tournament.

Injured Naomi Osaka was one figure who said she would skip Wimbledon, but the world’s best will be there, despite initial fears it could be an exhibition event.

Kostyuk (above), the World No.79, said: “All the Ukrainian players are standing with Wimbledon for their decision. I think there are a bunch of players who support this.

“I mean, we can see how players still love – but everyone is still playing and that melts my heart.”