Tsurenko Accuses WTA of Failing to Protect Her, Initiates Legal Action

Lesia Tsurenko, a Ukrainian tennis player, has declared that she is pursuing legal remedies against the WTA, asserting ‘moral abuse’ perpetrated by an unnamed executive within the organization. Tsurenko alleges this abuse triggered panic attacks and significantly hindered her professional career.

Tsurenko has been vocal regarding the difficulties faced while competing since the Russian incursion. In 2023, she withdrew from a scheduled match, citing a panic attack that followed a conversation with WTA leadership concerning their handling of the conflict.

In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, Tsurenko stated, “I spoke about it openly and directly.”
“I sought protection and justice within the WTA. Instead, I encountered indifference and injustice, leading to a sustained period of moral deterioration.”

Reuters has reached out to the WTA for their response to these allegations.

Following her withdrawal from the Indian Wells competition in 2023, the WTA addressed her remarks, affirming their “consistent and unwavering support for Ukraine and unequivocally condemn the actions initiated by the Russian government.”

Tsurenko, aged 35, expressed that the WTA Tour has transformed into a “frightening” and “unfamiliar” environment for her.

“The experiences I’ve endured include pain, fear, panic attacks, humiliation, withheld information, and harassment of my team to silence me, and this is an incomplete list,” she conveyed.

“The WTA Tour neglected its duty to safeguard a woman, a player, and a human being. Instead, the WTA Tour chose to shield an individual holding a leadership position.

“My final recourse to defend myself, assert my rights and dignity, and prevent similar acts of violence in sports is to seek judicial intervention.”