NOVAK Djokovic has spoken out against Wimbledon’s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, labelling the move “crazy”.

The All England Club announced the shock decision on Wednesday, saying it was taking a stand in an attempt to “limit Russia’s global influence through the strongest means possible.”

“We recognise that this is hard on the individuals affected, and it is with sadness that they will suffer for the actions of the leaders of the Russian regime,” All England Club chairman Ian Hewitt said in the statement.

However, the move has sparked worldwide condemnation, with men’s World No.1 Djokovic among the many who are unhappy.

The Serbian star said he disagrees with war, but banning athletes was unfair.

“I will always condemn war, I will never support war being myself a child of war,” he said at the Serbia Open in Belgrade.

“I know how much emotional trauma it leaves.

“In Serbia we all know what happened in 1999. In the Balkans we have had many wars in recent history.

“However, I cannot support the decision of Wimbledon, I think it is crazy.

“The players, the tennis players, the athletes have nothing to do with it (war). When politics interferes with sport, the result is not good.”

Djokovic’s closest rival – Russian World No.2 Daniil Medvedev – will be one of the many players banned.

Medvedev beat Djokovic in the US Open final last year to deny the 20-time major winner a calendar year Grand Slam.

The ATP and WTA tours have also criticised Wimbledon’s decision, as has tennis legend Martina Navratilova. (ESPN)