"It's not a betrayal": the president of the Russian Federation reacts to Rakhimova's naturalization

Kamilla Rakhimova has decided to represent Uzbekistan, thus turning the page on Russia. A choice welcomed without bitterness by the president of the Russian Tennis Federation.

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Clément Gehl

le 02/12/2025 à 09h55

1 min to read

Rakhimova

Kamilla Rakhimova has decided to change her nationality and has opted for Uzbekistan, leaving Russia behind.

The president of the Russian Tennis Federation, Shamil Tarpischev, reacted to this news. In comments collected by the Tass Agency, he stated: "It is not a betrayal, but a desire to play.

The Olympic Games in sight

She remains Russian, but she is simply changing her sporting nationality. These changes are motivated by the upcoming Olympic Games. She would not have been selected for our national team.

She could be for Uzbekistan. But nothing is set in stone. To qualify for the Olympic Games, you need to be among the top 60 or 70 players."