Australian Open 2023: Russia, Belarus Flags Banned At Season Opening Grand Slam

Melbourne: Russian and Belarusian flags have been banned at the Australian Open after a controversy erupted over the Russian flag seen hanging during Monday’s match between Ukraine’s Kateryna Baindl and Russia’s Kamilla Rakhimova.

“Flags from Russia and Belarus are banned onsite at the Australian Open,” Tennis Australia said in a statement Tuesday, as per a report.

“Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside. The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy tennis,” it said.

Players from Belarus and Russia are permitted to compete in this year’s Australian Open, although they are not permitted to compete under their national flag or name, which has become standard in the international sport since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.