Russia's Rublev calls for peace after reaching Dubai Championships final
What's the story
Russian tennis star Andrey Rublev on Saturday called for peace after reaching the summit clash of the ongoing Dubai Tennis Championships. Rublev's remark comes amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has stirred world politics. The 24-year-old reached the final in Dubai after defeating Hubert Hurkacz in their semi-final. Post his victory, he wrote, "No war please," on an on-court camera. Here's more.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Russia's invasion has forced Ukraine to defend its country using armed forces, which has resulted in a war between the two nations. It has also fueled fears of a wider war in Europe. During such a crisis, it is important that international figures, especially those directly impacted by the crisis, speak up and make their leaders understand the importance of peace.
Twitter Post
'No war please': Rublev
Tennis player Andrey Rublev, world No. 7 and Russian No.2, writing “no war, please” on the camera after his Dubai semi-final win earlier today (he also spoke out yesterday against the invasion) pic.twitter.com/Ked03XYjyA
— Hannah Jane Parkinson (@ladyhaja) February 25, 2022
Matter
The heart of the matter
Writing messages on camera after an important win is a common tradition in tennis and football matches. And, that's what Rublev did. He used the on-court camera to share his message with the world. Meanwhile, Rublev defeated Poland's Hurkacz 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (5) in the semi-final. He will next take on Jiri Vesely in the final. Vesely reached the final by defeating Denis Shapovalov.
Crisis
Daniil Medvedev on Ukraine crisis
Earlier, Daniil Medvedev had also spoken about the Ukraine crisis at Mexico Open. "Watching the news from home, waking up here in Mexico, was not easy," Medvedev said. "By being a tennis player, I want to promote peace all over the world. We play in so many different countries. It's just not easy to hear all this news... I'm all for peace," Medvedev concluded.
About
A look at Russia and Ukraine crisis
Russia on Thursday launched a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, drawing criticism from several nations. The reason behind tensions between the two nations is said to be Ukraine's desire to join the intergovernmental military alliance NATO. Hundreds have been killed and wounded in the fighting on both sides. According to the United Nations, over 1,00,000 have fled their homes in Ukraine amid the ongoing crisis.