Sobolenko refused to hold an open press conference after the match in RG

second racket in the world Arina Sobolenko Belarus has refused to openly communicate with the media after defeating Kamilla Rakhimova (6:2, 6:2) in the third round of the French Open in 2023.

Sobolenko held a closed press conference, explaining his decision as follows:

“Yes, after the game (vs. Shimanovich – ed.) I spoke to the press, as I always do. I know they still ask more about politics than tennis.

I have been answering these questions in tournaments for months, expressing my feelings and thoughts very clearly. These questions don’t bother me after my matches.

I know I have to answer questions from the media about things not related to my tennis or my matches, but I didn’t feel safe at a press conference on Wednesday.

And when I give interviews to reporters after games, I have to feel safe. Today I decided to avoid a similar situation for my own mental health and well-being and the organizers supported me in this decision.

It’s been a tough few days, now I’m focused on continuing to perform well.”

Earlier, Sobolenko had refused to answer a direct question about the war in Ukraine.