Italian Open: Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk praises Daria Kasatkina’s ‘braveness’ in criticising Russian invasion and switching nationalities

Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk praised Daria Kasatkina’s “braveness” in switching nationalities from Russia to Australia earlier than the pair shook palms after their match on the Italian Open.

Kasatkina modified allegiance in April, having been important of her nation’s LGBTQ+ legal guidelines and the struggle in Ukraine.

Ukrainian gamers have a long-standing coverage of not shaking palms with Russian or Belarusian gamers, with Kostyuk describing it as “a private stance in opposition to Russia’s aggression”.

However after sealing a 6-4 6-2 win to progress to the third spherical in Rome, she went to the online and shook Kasatkina’s hand.

Kostyuk stated after her victory she felt she needed to acknowledge Kasatkina’s actions publicy, including: “It is all the time good to shake palms with somebody who I respect.”

She stated she hoped Kasatkina would proceed to talk out in opposition to the struggle now she had the “freedom” to take action.

Previous to the match, Kostyuk wrote on Instagram: “When somebody not solely tells the reality – calling Russia the aggressor – but in addition acts on it, that deserves respect.

“Daria Kasatkina has clearly spoken out in opposition to the struggle and made the choice to surrender her Russian sports activities citizenship.

“This takes braveness – and I acknowledge it. I hope this isn’t the ultimate step however a part of a deeper dedication.

“I stand with Ukraine. I stand for reality, for dignity, and for many who select to talk and act – when staying quiet can be simpler.”

The Italian Open is the third event Kasatkina has performed beneath the Australian flag.