When flags change, so do handshakes: Marta Kostyuk welcomes Daria Kasatkina’s move to be Australian

"There are times when silence means pretending nothing is happening. 

The war against Ukraine is not just ongoing — it’s painful, unjust, and deeply real. It shapes lives, futures, and everyday choices in ways many will never have to imagine.  

Some say sport should stay out of politics.

But this isn’t politics — it’s about humanity.
And when your country is under attack by an aggressor, silence feels like complicity.
As an athlete, I believe in fair play and respect — but those principles mean little if they don’t extend beyond the court."

"Since the beginning of the war, I’ve chosen not to shake hands with Russian or Belarusian players — as a personal stance against Russia’s aggression.
But when someone not only tells the truth…
…calling russia the aggressor — but also acts on it, that deserves respect."

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

That 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."