Aryna Sabalenka has put Belarusian tennis back at the top of the women’s circuit, but decades ago, one player stood as the true symbol of the country: Natasha Zvereva.

Born in Minsk, when it was still part of the Soviet Union, Zvereva became a standout both on and off the court, speaking out against her government long before the fall of the Berlin Wall and standing up for what she believed was fair.

On the court, Zvereva had a remarkable singles career—including a historic match against Steffi Graf—but it was in doubles where she truly cemented her legacy. She formed a legendary partnership with Gigi Fernandez and also won titles alongside other iconic players like Pam Shriver and Martina Hingis.

A Roland Garros final for the history books

Sports held a special place in the Soviet Uni

See Full Page