MELBOURNE, Australia – Tennis Australia has communicated with its players, cautioning them against participating in events in Russia. This comes in light of reports indicating that Davis Cup team member Thanasi Kokkinakis was involved in an exhibition tournament in St. Petersburg nearly two months prior.

According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, Kokkinakis went against Tennis Australia’s advisories and took part in the exhibition from November 29 to December 1. This event was allegedly sponsored by Gazprom, the major state-owned Russian natural gas and oil company, which has faced financial sanctions from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade since April 2022, following the onset of Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.

In a statement, Tennis Australia affirmed its commitment to following the guidance of the federal government and its policies regarding Russia. The organization mentioned, “For several years, Tennis Australia has … abided by federal government policy and recommendations in regard to Russia. This support and compliance continues.” They further advised athletes to refrain from competing in Russia and noted ongoing discussions with DFAT to better inform players about the possible consequences of engaging in activities within this region.

Kokkinakis, alongside Nick Kyrgios, recently participated in the men’s doubles at the Australian Open but had to retire from their first-round match in the second set due to injuries. The duo, known as the “Special Ks,” were the champions of the Australian Open doubles in 2022.

In 2022, professional tennis players from Russia and Belarus were banned from Wimbledon amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, although this ban was lifted before the 2023 tournament. Currently, players from these nations are allowed to compete in ATP, WTA tours, and Grand Slam events but must do so as neutral competitors, without the representation of their national flags.