The Uzbek Tennis Federation has confirmed that Kamilla Rakhimova will now compete under Uzbekistan’s flag after switching nationalities. The 24-year-old, who has been ranked as high as world No. 60, had represented Russia until this month.
Rakhimova made her Tour debut in 2019 and has steadily progressed, winning one WTA 125 title in Mexico last year and two WTA doubles titles. She has reached the third round in three of the four Grand Slam tournaments and earlier this season produced a notable upset against Jasmine Paolini at Wimbledon.
Family ties to Uzbekistan
Although Rakhimova has not yet spoken publicly about her decision, her family has strong links to Uzbekistan. Her mother, Rufina Rakhimova, played tennis for the Uzbek SSR, and her brother, Timur, was born in Tashkent.
Federation welcomes Rakhimova
The Uzbek Tennis Federation expressed excitement at her arrival. “The arrival of Kamila Rakhimova to the Uzbekistan national team is an event of historic significance,” said Secretary General Sador Kamilov. “She has already proven herself to be a strong, competitive tennis player capable of playing on equal terms with the world’s top players. We are delighted to welcome Kamila to our team and are confident that she will achieve great victories, go far, and set new records under the Uzbekistan flag.”
Early matches under new flag
Rakhimova is currently competing at a WTA 125 event in Angers, France, where she won her opening match against Alina Korneeva 6-1, 6-1. She is now one of only two players ranked inside the top 200 representing Uzbekistan.
Russian reaction
Russian tennis chief Shamil Tarpischev commented on her decision, framing it as a practical move ahead of the Olympics. “This isn’t betrayal, but a desire to play. She remains Russian, but is simply changing her sporting citizenship. These moves are happening because of the upcoming Olympics,” he said. “She (Rakhimova) wouldn’t have made our national team. She might make it for Uzbekistan. But it’s not a given that she’ll make it. To qualify for the Olympics, you have to be in the top 60 or top 70.”