“She is the nicest and most outspoken Russian player of them all. What else could she possibly do?”: Tennis fans reacted as Marta Kostyuk refuses pre-match picture with Kasatkina
WTA
Tennis fans
have shared their opinions on Marta Kostyuk's refusal to take a pre-match photo
with Daria Kasatkina at the 2023 Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo Japan
Ukrainian
tennis player Marta Kostyuk faced off against Russian player Daria Kasatkina in
the first round of the WTA 500 tournament. The players took to the center court
on Tuesday, September 26.
Before the
match, it was expected that Kostyuk and Kasatkina would take a pre-match photo
together with the guest who initiated the coin toss. However, Marta Kostyuk did
not want to be in the frame with the Russians due to the ongoing conflict
between their countries.
While so
far, all Ukrainian players have completely avoided a pre-match photo, Kostyuk
chose to pose for the photo separately. Daria Kasatkina quickly agreed and also
posed alone with the guest.
World No.
13 has repeatedly spoken out against the war, but she has also faced criticism
for not shaking hands with her opponents. This was evident, for example, at the
French Open when she lost to Elena Rybakina. Despite Rybakina's statement that
she refrained from the handshake out of respect for her Ukrainian opponent, the
crowd responded with negative reactions.
The unusual
incident has caught the attention of tennis fans who have shared their opinions
on the controversial decision made by the Ukrainian player:
“I totally
understand their standpoint in general, but Kasatkina is exactly the player
they should shake hands and take pictures with. She is the nicest and most
outspoken Russian player of them all. What else could she possibly do?” one fan
said.
“Even
though dasha is openly against the war, it would make ukrainians very upset to
see a star athlete like marta pose w a russian & putin’s regime would twist
the photo to look like ukrainians support russia. war is as much about optics
as anything else.”
“Ppl saying
"why do this to kasatkina when she is so against the war" when
Ukrainian players have constantly said its not abt the individuals but not
wanting to show soldiers fighting the war them taking pics with Russian players
as if nothing is happening,” one fan said.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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