Ukrainian Tennis Star Marta Kostyuk Highlights Stance Against War in Italian Open
Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk made headlines with her performance at the Italian Open, where she defeated Daria Kasatkina in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2. The match took place on Friday, and it was not just the victory that drew attention, but also the handshake at the net that Kostyuk extended—a significant gesture as she has refrained from this action with Russian and Belarusian players since the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2022.
Kasatkina, who is now representing Australia, has been one of the few former Russian athletes to openly criticize the war. She came out publicly as gay last year and has not returned to Russia, citing concerns about the country’s oppressive climate.
Following the match, Kostyuk expressed her admiration for Kasatkina’s courage in a heartfelt message on Instagram. "Since the war began, I have chosen not to shake hands with Russian or Belarusian players," she wrote. "However, when someone openly condemns the war and takes a firm stand, it deserves respect."
Kostyuk acknowledged Kasatkina’s decision to forsake her Russian sports nationality, hoping it marks the beginning of a stronger commitment to speak out against injustice. "I stand with Ukraine and for those who choose to act, even when silence might be easier," she added.
Currently ranked 15th in the world, Kasatkina’s outspoken opposition to Moscow’s actions sets her apart in the sports world, where many face harsh consequences for dissent.
Kostyuk is now preparing to compete against Canadian Leylah Annie Fernandez in the tournament’s next round.
