Successful tennis doubles
Russians and Ukrainians work together
Andrey Rublev and Denys Molchanov won the doubles tournament in Marseille. But their nationalities make more headlines than their sporting success.
Published: 02/21/2022 at 17:09
|
Updated: 02/23/2022 at 5:37 p.m
Andrey Rublew (24, ATP 7) has had some successful days in Marseille. First he wins the singles final of the Open 13 Provence, only to follow suit a few hours later with the doubles title. But it’s not just his success that’s a talking point. It is much more the nationalities of Rublev and those of his partner Denys Moltschanow (34th ATP 77) that provide topics of conversation.
Rublev is Russian and Molchanov is Ukrainian. In view of the current political situation between the two countries, this is an explosive constellation. They don’t want to send a political signal with their victory, but they do so unintentionally, and what a signal! Rublev: «We are normal people and not politicians. We are athletes. And sport brings people together, even if everyone is cheering for their own team or player. It’s that simple. Peace be with you.”
Rublev and Molchanov have known each other for years. The Ulrainer helped Rublev gain a foothold on the tour. “He took me to dinner and other things at the beginning of my career,” says the Russian. Now they’ve graced their long-standing friendship with a prestigious win. A successful Ukrainian-Russian friendship! (cef)
More about current tennis events
