Yevgeny Kafelnikov doesn't appear to be unhappy about Polina Kudermetova altering her allegiance to Uzbekistan as the previous two-time Grand Slam champion says he "doesn’t take into account it a loss" for Russian tennis.
Initially of the week, it was introduced that Moscow-born Kudermetova – who represented Russia within the first six years of her professional profession – would play below the Uzbekistani flag any more.
Since beginning her profession, the 22-year-old has loved success on the lower-tier, successful a complete of 9 tournaments. Initially of 2025, the participant presently ranked at No. 104 additionally made her first WTA remaining in Brisbane earlier than dropping to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Just a few months after ending as runner-up in Brisbane, she additionally achieved a career-high rating of No. 54 on this planet.
Kafelnikov: Kudermetova's departure gained't impression Russia in any means… I don't take into account it a loss
"Solely our federation's president, Shamil Tarpischev, can formally announce Polina Kudermetova's switch to the Uzbek flag. I personally know that Polina's boyfriend is an Uzbek citizen. He's the one who received her concerned; it's fully regular follow. I don't take into account Kudermetova's departure a loss for our tennis. She made her resolution, and it gained't have an effect on Russia in any means. What sort of athlete will she be remembered as? I can't even touch upon that," 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medalist Kafelnikov stated, by way of Championat.
Two weeks earlier, Russian-born Kamila Rakhimova additionally modified her citizenship to Uzbekistan. Along with her rating of No. 97, Rakhimova is the top-ranked Uzbekistani feminine tennis participant, whereas Kudermetova is the Uzbekistani No. 2 now.
Earlier this yr, rising star Maria Timofeeva additionally began representing Uzbekistan. In the meantime, Daria Kasatkina now performs for Australia and Anastasia Potapova represents Austria.
When confirming Kudermetova as their new gamers, the Uzbekistan Tennis Federation stated the transfer would assist tennis develop of their nation.
