The Russian invasion of Ukraine began last year in February. It had wide-reaching effects as Russians around the world were affected by the conflict, especially in the sports world. Several countries have placed a ban on Russian and Belarusian players. In the tennis world, players hailing from the two countries were allowed to participate in the ATP and WTA Tour, albeit in a neutral flag. The only exception was the Wimbledon Championships, which banned Russian and Belarusian players in 2022. Understandably, the conflict created an awkward environment, as several Ukrainian stars weren’t happy with the decision to allow Russian and Belarusian players to participate in several tournaments. The ongoing Madrid Open saw another moment of hostility as Lesia Tsurenko refused to shake hands with Daria Kasatkina after their match.

Daria Kasatkina snubbed by her Ukrainian opponent

The Madrid Open is in full swing. As is with the spirit of tennis, all matches have players giving their all in their matches. However, one side triumphs and another has to return and prepare for the next championship. As a sign of sportsmanship, the opposing parties shake each other’s hands after the match has concluded. This is an age-old tennis tradition and happens no matter how terrible the defeat.

The match between Lesia Tsurenko and Daria Kasatkina had quite the drama surrounding it. The match culminated with the Russian emerging triumphant in straight sets. However, after the match, Tsurenko refused to shake her opponent’s hand. The short moment made headlines everywhere. Jose Morgado, the renowned tennis journalist, shared some snapshots of the incident, which showed the moments after the match. 

But the world number 8’s comments after the match weren’t hostile. As per Kasatkina, she understood why the handshake didn’t take place. The Russian politely waved at Tsurenko as she walked past her without returning the gesture.

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Her comments were shared on Twitter by Morgado. It read, “Kasatkina was asked about this after the match. “What’s more sad it that we are still in war and the Ukrainians have reasons not to shake hands with us. We waved at each other and I was happy about that…”“.

Kasatkina has stated that she is against the war between the two countries. Additionally, WTA number 1 Iga Swiatek also stated her contempt for the conflict. She talked about the ways in which Russian players can show their support for their Ukrainian fellow professionals.

As the conflict seems to be continuing between the two countries, we can expect many more such exchanges throughout the season.