ITF Maintains Belarus Suspension from Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) confirmed Friday that Belarus remains suspended from the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup, despite the International Olympic Committee's decision to lift restrictions on Belarusian athletes. The ITF stated its position on Belarus and Russia's tennis federations remains unchanged.

In a statement to AFP, the ITF said the suspensions of both the Belarus Tennis Federation and Russian Tennis Federation continue due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and Belarus's support for Russia's 2022 invasion. While some individual athletes from both nations compete as neutrals on professional tours, team representation in ITF events remains prohibited.

The ITF announced the membership status of the Belarus Tennis Federation will be reviewed at the organisation's Annual General Meeting in October, where voting member nations will decide on any potential reinstatement. The ITF governs Olympic tennis in coordination with the IOC but maintains separate eligibility rules for its own competitions.

The participation of Belarusian and Russian players in individual events is determined by the ATP, WTA, and Grand Slam organisers. World number one Aryna Sabalenka said Thursday she hopes to represent Belarus under its national flag again, calling it a source of pride.

The ITF said its suspension policy will remain in effect until the October review, with no changes expected before then.