UKRAINE'S MARTA KOSTYUK ACKNOWLEDGES DARIA KASATKINA'S 'COURAGE' BY SHAKING HANDS

Daria Kasatkina and Marta Kostyuk shake hands at the net in Rome. (Photo: The First Serve)

A warm handshake at the net between Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk and Australia's Daria Kasatkina eventuated at the Italian Open, after the latter defected from Russia.

Ukrainian players such as Elina Svitolina and Dayana Yastremska have been vocal and passionate about their stance against Russia and Belarus players by refusing to shake hands as a sign of strength.

Russia's traumatic full-scale invasion of Ukraine since February 2022 has sparked anger around the world, with sporting bodies such as the ATP and WTA refusing to promote Russian and Belarusian flags besides players' names.

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But Kasatkina's decision to play under the Aussie flag was fuelled by indifferent views concerning the war and her sexuality, with Kostyuk taking time to respect this before the match on Instagram.

"When someone not only tells the truth — calling Russia the aggressor — but also acts on it, that deserves respect," the world No.27 wrote.

"Daria Kasatkina has clearly spoken out against the war and made the decision to give up her Russian sports citizenship.

"This takes courage — and I acknowledge it. I hope this is not the final step but part of a deeper commitment.

"I stand with Ukraine. I stand for truth, for dignity, and for those who choose to speak and act — when staying quiet would be easier."

Kostyuk ousted Kasatkina 6-4 6-2 in the second-round of the WTA 1000 event in the Italian capital, but the pair shook hands after the final point.

"It's always nice to shake hands with someone I respect," Kostyuk said after her victory.

Kasatkina's defeat sees her drop down two places in the live rankings to No.17, while Kostyuk will face former US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez in the third-round.

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