Starodubtseva defends Kasatkina wedding attendance after criticism from fellow player: “My support for Ukraine has never wavered”

Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 06:30

Yulia Starodubtseva broke her silence after becoming involved in a controversy surrounding Daria Kasatkina’s wedding, defending her decision to attend the celebration alongside several WTA players from different backgrounds.

The Ukrainian player responded to criticism from compatriot Oleksandra Oliynykova, explaining that her presence at the event was simply an act of support for a close friend and insisting that her position regarding the war has never changed.

Kasatkina, who now represents Australia after changing nationality, celebrated her marriage to former figure skater Natalia Zabiiako in Greece, with several WTA players among the guests. The event brought together players from different backgrounds, including Russian-born athletes, Ukrainian competitors and players who have changed sporting allegiance in recent years.

Among those attending were Russian players Mirra Andreeva and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, as well as athletes such as Kamilla Rakhimova and Arina Rodionova, who have represented different nations during their careers. Ukrainian players Yulia Starodubtseva and Nadiia Kichenok were also present, with photos from the celebration later circulating online.

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Oliynykova reacted to the images with a series of Instagram stories directed at her Ukrainian compatriots, questioning their decision to attend the event and encouraging them to use their platforms to support fundraising efforts related to Ukraine.

Her comments also referenced their relationships with Russian players attending the wedding. “Girls, judging by your cheerful dancing, I can see you have plenty of energy. Why not use it to help close the fundraiser for a vehicle for the Ukrainian Marines?"

"With your audience and resources, this could be done very quickly,” Oliynykova wrote on her Instagram stories. “There’s only $5K left to raise. Or is it because your Russian friends wouldn’t understand?”

World No. 48 Oleksandra Oliynykova publicly criticizes her compatriots Yuliia Starodubtseva and Nadiia Kichenok for attending Daria Kasatkina's wedding

Starodubtseva: “I went to celebrate love”

Following the criticism, Starodubtseva explained that she usually prefers to keep her personal life private but felt the need to clarify her position after the situation gained attention. “Generally, I keep my life private, and do not like to explain myself, but since this topic has evolved to the point it has, I have something to say,” Starodubtseva wrote.

The Ukrainian player emphasized that her support for her country has never been in question and highlighted the personal impact the war has had on her family.

helpp what is olynikova probem🥲? god fobid yulia and nadia having fun of weeding....and i don't think that both of them we're responsible for who was on wedding guest list imao pic.twitter.com/1KW3mF8r15
— lilli tagger chats & updates (@sopp1_sopii) July 16, 2026

“Nobody can possibly know the full extent of suffering me and my family have endured — and I’m not asking for sympathy,” she said. “I believe nothing can prepare us for the horrors of war and I would never begin to tell anyone how to behave or how to process their trauma.”

Starodubtseva also reaffirmed her connection to Ukraine, describing the country as her home and insisting that her support has remained unchanged throughout the war. “I love Ukraine, I love our culture, I love our food and most importantly I love our people,” she added. “Ukraine is my home and always will be.”

Defending her decision and her relationship with Kasatkina

Addressing the wedding directly, Starodubtseva said her motivation was simply to support her friend Kasatkina, whose public opposition to the war has been well documented.

“Regarding the decision to attend my friend’s wedding. I went to celebrate love,” Starodubtseva wrote. “Dasha’s outspoken, anti-war stance is well documented and while there might be emotions towards some on the guest list, I was there solely to support my friend.”

More photos from Dasha Kasatkina & Natalia Zabiiako's wedding in Greece 🥹❤️💕 pic.twitter.com/Qd4Ds4acFX
— Elisa (@elissetennis) July 15, 2026

The Ukrainian also rejected the idea that attending the celebration represented any change in her views or associations, stating that her support for Ukraine has been consistent since before she reached the WTA Tour.

“Since day 1, my support for Ukraine has never wavered nor diminished,” she said. “Even before I had a single WTA point or any platform whatsoever, while at US college, I spoke out advocating for Ukraine, raised awareness and helped in other ways.”

Starodubtseva concluded by saying she does not feel the need to constantly prove her position publicly and will continue representing Ukraine on court. “My support and love for Ukraine remain unwavering, despite the criticism,” she added. “I will continue to proudly represent Ukraine every time I step onto the court.”

Kasatkina’s wedding and the wider WTA discussion

The controversy comes after Kasatkina’s recent change of sporting allegiance from Russia to Australia. The former world No. 8, who has openly criticized Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has built strong friendships across the WTA Tour despite the political tensions surrounding nationality and representation in tennis.

The wedding highlighted the complex relationships within the women’s game, where players from countries affected by geopolitical conflicts continue to share locker rooms, compete against each other and maintain personal friendships. For Starodubtseva, however, the message was clear: attending a friend’s wedding did not change her identity, her beliefs or her commitment to Ukraine.

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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