"The bigger you guys make it, the longer it’ll be a conversation": Azarenka hits out at journalists for making every gesture a big story
WTA
Victoria Azarenka has hit out at journalists for making the situation in terms of the lack of handshake between Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian players bigger than it needs to be.
Azarenka was booed by sections of Court One as she left making a gesture towards the crowd with her fists together walking off.
The former World No.1 who is usually very popular was the subject of booing due to a lack of handshake between her and Elina Svitolina after a Wimbledon epic.
An aspect of the match which Svitolina confirmed she would continue earlier on Sunday with the BBC. Earlier in the press conference, Azarenka was asked if she felt like the victim.
She said all she was doing was respecting the decision and said what was she going to do. Choosing not to do the same as her compatriot, Aryna Sabalenka who waited at the net for Svitolina.
Opening up on their personal relationship, she said that she has never had any issues with her and that the circumstances are what they are.
Before accusing the media of magnifying every gesture and the conversation will continue while that happens.
"I’ve known Elina for a long time & always had a good relationship with her. The circumstances, it is what it is. I don’t think talking about every little gesture is a big story. The bigger you guys make it, the longer it’ll be a conversation."
Many criticised the crowd for their reaction to Azarenka and it marrs a superb tournament for the multiple Grand Slam champion.
After struggling since the Australian Open semi-final, she has found her form again heading into the US Open and continues to showcase her brilliance on the court.
Svitolina now moves on to face Iga Swiatek in the Quarter-Finals making back-to-back latter stages after pregnancy. A superb achievement.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
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