Some say politics and sport shouldn’t mix.
Well, it was virtually impossible to ignore at the Brisbane International as women’s world no. 1 Aryna Sabalenka cruised to a straight sets 6-4 6-3 win over Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk in Sunday’s women’s final.
As the crowd applauded warmly at the end of the match played in stifling conditions on Pat Rafter Arena, Sabalenka stared directly at the Ukrainian and kissed both of her biceps in a show of strength.
23-year-old Kostyuk then chose not to shake her Belarusian opponent’s hand creating an awkward moment to conclude the women’s tournament.
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While Belarus is an ally of Russia, Sabalenka, 27, is on the record saying she doesn’t support the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Following the match Kostyuk gave a heart-felt speech at the presentations which was warmly received by the crowd, thanking her fans, coaching team and ‘all of the opponents I’ve played this week’ but she conspicuously made no mention of Sabalanka.
‘It’s very painful to live this reality every day’ says Kostyuk
Kostyuk also gave a short but emotional insight into the challenges of travelling the world while her family and her country remains at war with Russia.
“I want to say a few words about Ukraine, I play every day with pain in my heart,” Kostyuk said emotionally.
“There are thousands of people who are without light and warm water right now, it’s minus 20 degrees outside, it’s very painful to live this reality every day.
“It’s very hot in Brisbane so it’s difficult to imagine, but my sister is sleeping under three blankets because of how cold it is at home. I was incredibly moved and happy to see so many Ukrainian fans and flags (in Brisbane) this week.”
For her part, Sabalenka was gracious in her victory speech—the first person she thanked was Kostyuk much to the appreciation of fans.
Sabalenka’s dominant win in Brisbane consolidated her place as women’s world no.1 while Kostyuk has moved up six places to 20th in the Live WTA Rankings.
Both players look set for deep runs at the Australian Open which begins next Sunday at Melbourne Park.