Moscow, Russia – Russian tennis federation president Shamil Tarpischev has firmly dismissed any suggestions that rising star Mirra Andreeva might follow in the footsteps of several compatriots by changing her sporting nationality.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Russian tennis players have faced restrictions, competing as neutral athletes on both the ATP and WTA Tours and being banned from the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup. Despite these challenges, Russian players remain highly competitive, yet a notable number have opted to represent other countries in recent years.
Read More: England and Scotland Confirm 2026 World Cup Kick-Off Times
A Growing Trend of Nationality Changes
The trend of Russian players switching sporting nationality has accelerated since 2022. To date, nine players have made the move, with Anastasia Potapova being the latest. Previously, before the conflict, players such as Elena Rybakina, Alexander Bublik, and Yulia Putintseva had switched to Kazakhstan, primarily for financial reasons.
This year alone, four players have changed nationality: Kamila Rakhimova and Maria Timofeeva now represent Uzbekistan, Daria Kasatkina has joined Australia, and Potapova is set to represent Austria starting in 2026. Such moves often allow players better opportunities to compete in major tournaments like the Olympics and team events.
Mirra Andreeva: Russia’s Rising Star
At just 18 years old, Andreeva is currently Russia’s No. 1 female player and ranked ninth in the WTA standings. She has already claimed two WTA 1000 titles in 2025 and won a doubles silver medal alongside Diana Shnaider at the Paris 2024 Olympics, competing under a neutral flag.
Given her rapid rise, speculation has emerged about whether she might consider switching her sporting nationality, following the trend set by her compatriots.
Tarpischev’s Firm Response
When asked by Russian sports site Championat whether Andreeva or Shnaider might change nationality, Tarpischev responded bluntly:
“No. Neither she [Andreeva] nor Shnaider. Imagine I have 1,070 tennis players playing abroad. They’re like army men! And we keep 350 on our national teams. The rest are on their own.”
Regarding Potapova’s recent decision to represent Austria, Tarpischev suggested practical motivations were a likely factor.
“She lived in Austria for two years. I can only assume she wants to participate in the Olympics. She doesn’t make our team based on the rankings. She kept complaining about visa problems. It disrupts our rhythm. Purely mundane things,” he said.
“Athletes don’t change their home countries, but their sporting citizenship. Because everyone wants to play. Other countries recruit for the Olympics, often taking our reserves and paying a lot of money. It’s a combination of a person’s thinking about how to play better and achieve results.”
The Bigger Picture
While the movement of Russian players to other nations is not unprecedented, the frequency of switches since 2022 is notable. Many are motivated by the opportunity to participate in major international competitions, rather than a desire to leave Russia permanently.
For Andreeva, Tarpischev’s confidence suggests that Russia can expect her to remain a cornerstone of the national program for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Russian tennis players competing as neutral athletes?
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Russian players have been barred from representing their country in the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup. They are allowed to compete on the ATP and WTA Tours under a neutral flag.
How many Russian players have changed their sporting nationality since 2022?
Nine Russian players have switched their sporting nationality since February 2022, including notable names such as Anastasia Potapova, Daria Kasatkina, Kamila Rakhimova, and Maria Timofeeva.
Who is Mirra Andreeva, and why is she significant?
Mirra Andreeva is an 18-year-old Russian tennis star, currently ranked ninth in the WTA rankings. She is Russia’s No. 1 female player and has won two WTA 1000 titles in 2025, as well as a doubles Olympic silver medal at Paris 2024.
Is there any indication that Andreeva might change her nationality?
According to Russian tennis chief Shamil Tarpischev, neither Andreeva nor fellow rising star Diana Shnaider has any plans to change nationality. Tarpischev expressed confidence that both players will remain with Russia.
Why do some Russian players switch their sporting nationality?
Players often switch for practical reasons such as better opportunities to compete in tournaments like the Olympics, visa ease, financial incentives, or the chance to play regularly in team events. It does not necessarily mean they are leaving their home country permanently.
Who was the most recent Russian player to switch nationality?
Anastasia Potapova recently announced she would represent Austria starting in 2026. This follows other switches, including Kamila Rakhimova and Maria Timofeeva moving to Uzbekistan, and Daria Kasatkina to Australia.
Conclusion
While the trend of Russian tennis players changing their sporting nationality has grown since 2022, Mirra Andreeva appears firmly committed to representing her country. Russian tennis chief Shamil Tarpischev has emphasized that both Andreeva and Diana Shnaider are expected to remain central to Russia’s national program, highlighting their status as rising stars in the global tennis scene.
