Tennis-Abu Dhabi Open apologises to Russia's Kasatkina after Spain flag error


FILE PHOTO: Jan 16, 2025; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Daria Kasatkina hits a forehand during her match against Yafan Wang of China in the second round of the women's singles at the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images/File Photo

(Reuters) - The Abu Dhabi Open has apologised to Russian world number 11 Daria Kasatkina for an administrative mistake that listed her as a player from Spain at the tournament's draw ceremony on Sunday and sparked speculation that she had switched her nationality.

Kasatkina has been playing on the tour as a neutral athlete after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from competing under their own flags following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Tennis

Tennis-Alcaraz defeats Rublev to reach Qatar Open final against Fils
Tennis-Pegula fights back to beat Anisimova in Dubai semi-final
Tennis-Players run for cover as honey bees swarm Bengaluru stadium
Tennis-Badosa slams online 'disrespect' after Dubai injury retirement
Tennis-WTA forms special council to overhaul congested calendar amid player concerns
Tennis-Ruzic grabs Dubai spotlight as lucky loser shocks Raducanu
Tennis-Lucky losers step in as withdrawals shake Dubai draw, reignite calendar debate
Tennis-Alcaraz says he still has 'weaknesses' ahead of return in Doha
Tennis-Cerundolo ends Argentina Open heartbreak with maiden home title
Tennis-Shelton rallies from set down to claim Dallas Open title

Others Also Read