Rublev calls for peace in Ukraine with "no to war" message on camera lens
Russia's Andrey Rublev joined compatriot Daniil Medvedev in calling for an end to the war in Ukraine.
Men's world number seven Andrey Rublev called for peace in Ukraine on Friday, following a similar appeal by fellow Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev.
Rublev writes "no to war" on camera after victory over Hurkacz
Rublev beat Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 7-5 7-6 (7-5) to progress to the final of the Dubai Tennis Championships.
After confirming his place in a showdown with either Denis Shapovalov or Jiri Vesely, the 24-year-old took a pen and wrote "no to war" on the lens of a television camera.
It is not uncommon for players to write messages on camera lenses, but a plea for peace was an emotive move from Rublev.
On Thursday, Russia invaded neighbouring Ukraine following weeks of rising political tensions. The conflict escalated further still on Friday, with reports of fighting within the capital city of Kyiv.
Rublev's actions came after Medvedev – who will succeed Novak Djokovic as world number one next week – said he wanted to "promote peace".
Medvedev has reached the final four of the Mexican Open in Acapulco.
"You realise how important it is to have peace in the world"
Rublev had previously expressed his wish for peace in a news conference at the Dubai event.
"In these moments you realise that my match is not important," Rublev said, with a video clip shared to his official Instagram account.
"It's not about my match, how it affects me. What's happening is much more terrible.
"You realise how important it is to have peace in the world and to respect each other no matter what, to be united.
"We should take care of our Earth and of each other. This is the most important thing."