"Ukrainians feel this support and thank you"- Alexandr Dolgopolov hails Iga Swiatek for speaking up against Anastasia Potapova wearing a 'Moscow' tee

Ukrainian tennis player Alexandr Dolgopolov has hailed Iga Swiatek's decision to speak up against Russia's Anastasia Potapova, who wore a Russian Premiere League team's t-shirt before her third-round match against American Jessica Pegula at the Indian Wells Open.

Potapova was beaten 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 by third-seeded Pegula on Sunday, March 12, in the third round. However, Potapova intentionally walked out on the court in a Spartak Moscow jersey, surprising many.

Speaking at a press conference, Swiatek admitted that the move took her by surprise considering the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. She also stated that she has taken up this particular issue with the WTA.

"Iga Swiatek on Potapova wearing Moscow jersey: “To be honest, I was surprised. I thought she realized she should not, even if she’s a fan of the team, show her views in this way at such times. I talked to WTA & found out there should be less situations, which reassured me a bit” she said.

Ukrainian tennis player Alexandr Dolgopolov took to social media to thank Swiatek for the support and appreciated the World No.1 for taking time out on the issue, which shows how grounded the young Pole is.

Dolgopolov, incidentally, had enlisted in the Ukrainian army to defend his country from the Russian invasion.

"It’s no doubt @iga_swiatek understands all the nonsense that’s going on around and shows empathy and huge example for others. Considering it’s in the moment she is super busy and #1, means there is giant ukrainians feel this support and thank you" he tweeted.

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Iga Swiatek breezes past Emma Raducanu to reach Indian Wells Open quarterfinals

Polish tennis star Iga Swiatek has registered yet another win at the Indian Wells Open. She defeated British star Emma Raducanu in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, March 16.

Swiatek won in straight sets 6-3, 6-1. This marked the pair's second time facing off against each other. They first played against each other at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart last year, with Swiatek coming out on top 6-4,6-4.

The 21-year-old Pole will next face unseeded Sorana Cirstea in the quarterfinals on Thursday, March 16.

Swiatek is the defending champion at the Indian Wells Open. Last year, she prevailed over Greek Maria Sakkari 6-4, 6-1 in the final to clinch the title.