'Silence': Ukrainian athlete calls out Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal

Ukraine tennis star Sergiy Stakhovsky has called out tennis icons Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal - while praising Novak Djokovic - after the pair remained silence when he contacted for support over Russia's invasion of his homeland.

Recently retired tennis player Stakhovsky left his wife and kids in Hungary to join other Ukrainian athletes in taking up arms to defend his homeland from Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion.

'END OF AN ERA': Tennis world stunned by shock Novak Djokovic split

'IS THIS A JOKE': Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal at centre of tennis outrage

The barbaric invasion has seen world leaders and icons unite in speaking out against Russia's actions.

Sporting bodies have taken action with Russia and Belarus (helping Russia) banned from codes, including FIFA competition and tennis.

And Stakhovsky reached out to tennis' three biggest names for support during these difficult times.

The Ukrainian said World No.2 Djokovic responded and shared his support.

However, he was left disappointed when Federer and Nadal chose to remain silent.

"Djokovic sent me a message of support, we even chatted a bit," Sergiy Stakhovsky told La Stampa, according to a translation.

"I tried to contact Federer and Nadal, I’m sorry they preferred silence.

"I understand them, it’s not their war. We have the support of great personalities, I hope it lasts."

In an interview with Good Morning Britain, Stakhovsky also called for other nations to implement a 'No Flying' zone to help out his nation.

"The messages from the world to unite and stop this mess. All the sanctions, I can see the support from people all around the world. I have received messages from friends and non-friends," he said.

"Even the restrictions and sanctions, it's great, it's working...but it doesn't stop him [Putin] from what he is doing."

Stakhovsky retired from tennis this year after he failed to qualify at the Australian Open.

Elina Svitolina's defiant statement over Russia twist

Another Ukraine tennis player making waves is Elina Svitolina.

The World No.15 made a huge statement for her homeland after a convincing 6-2, 6-2 victory, which came after she had initially refused to play against opponents from Russia or Belarus, due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The WTA was able to convince the 27-year-old to play eventually, after announcing players from Russia or Belarus would compete under a neutral flag.

Additionally, the WTA has suspended the 2022 Kremlin Cup in Russia, which was due to be held in Moscow this October.

Svitolina said her meetings with the WTA prior to the final had been productive, leading her to soften her stance.

“I had a couple of meetings with the WTA and I was happy they answered the two things we wanted, the neutral flag and suspension of tournaments, so everything was done and that’s why I was on court tonight," she said.

“It’s a special win, because what we are going through right now in Ukraine is terrifying. It’s been six days that we have been really struggling. All the Ukraine tennis players and Ukrainians in general have been really terrified.

“For me, I’m not playing only for myself, I’m playing for my country. I’m playing for the help of the Ukrainian army and people in need, so this victory is very special. I’m playing for all Ukrainians."

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