WTA controversy: Ukrainian player's attire change sparks debate

While Oleksandra Oleinikova may not be among the most well-known Ukrainian tennis players, she has been in the spotlight recently due to a significant controversy that erupted before her first-round match in Brazil, a topic extensively covered by Ukrainian media.

The Ukrainian went up against Russian Alevtina Ibragimova, whom she defeated 6-4, 6-0. However, it is the incident, rather than the match result, that has garnered the most attention. Oleksandra Oleinikova's outfit displayed the website address drones4ua.org, which invites international supporters to assist the Ukrainian army in purchasing equipment. The WTA demanded she change her clothing.

Ukrainian sports websites have engaged vigorously in the issue, labelling the WTA's decision as "scandalous." Journalists from btu.org.ua reached out to Oleinikova's team for their comments on the incident.

According to current WTA rules, while it is permissible to advertise a bank or an expensive watch, advertising a charity fundraiser for equipment, medicine, or vehicles for a country enduring the deceitful, inhumane aggression of a reckless neighbour is not permitted (...) We chose to comply with the WTA's requirements by temporarily removing the logo from Oleksandra's clothing. This decision was made not out of agreement, but to enable us to continue promoting this project without breaching WTA rules. Stay tuned for our response in the next tournament. We extend our greetings to all fans, glory to Ukraine - they wrote.

In the second round of the Challenger, Oleksandra Oleinikova faced Maja Chwalińska. The Polish player won the match 7-6(1), 6-1.