Elina Svitolina Criticizes IOC for Relaxing Restrictions on Belarusian Athletes

Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has strongly condemned the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for relaxing restrictions on Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flag and anthem. Svitolina described the decision as painful and inappropriate while the war in Ukraine continues, with rockets still striking her country. The IOC initially banned Russian and Belarusian athletes in 2022 but recently announced that Belarusian teams could participate in international federations' events, clearing the way for their full participation ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. While Belarusian World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka welcomed the move, other sporting bodies like World Athletics and the International Tennis Federation (ITF) have rejected the recommendation, maintaining bans or neutral status for these athletes. The IOC defended its stance by arguing that athletes should not be punished for their governments' actions and noted that the Belarusian Olympic Committee is compliant with the Olympic Charter, unlike Russia's suspended committee. Svitolina, a vocal critic since the war began, continues to protest by refusing handshakes with Russian and Belarusian players.