The French Open semifinal between Marta Kostyuk and Mirra Andreeva concluded without the traditional post-match handshake, a scene that has become familiar whenever the Ukrainian player faces opponents from Russia or Belarus. The decision came as no surprise, as Kostyuk has consistently refused such gestures since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Match Conclusion Without Handshake
After the match ended, both players acknowledged each other from a distance but did not approach the net for the customary handshake. This act has become a symbolic gesture for Kostyuk to demonstrate her support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
Kostyuk's Stance on the War
Kostyuk has been one of the most outspoken Ukrainian players on the women's tennis tour regarding the war. Along with fellow Ukrainians Elina Svitolina and Dayana Yastremska, she has repeatedly declined handshakes with Russian and Belarusian opponents. Her position has remained unchanged regardless of the tournament or the significance of the match.
A similar incident occurred at the Madrid Open earlier this year, when Kostyuk defeated Andreeva in the final and left the court without participating in the traditional handshake.
Impact Beyond the Court
Beyond her performances on the court, Kostyuk has regularly spoken about the impact of the war on people in Ukraine. After reaching the French Open semifinals, she dedicated the achievement to Ukrainians and revealed that one of her first reactions to the latest developments back home was checking on the safety of her family.
The World No. 15 has also stressed the importance of athletes continuing to speak about the conflict, saying it helps keep global attention on the humanitarian impact of the war. While handshakes are traditionally seen as a sign of sportsmanship in tennis, Kostyuk has remained firm in her stance.
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