Elina Svitolina Faces Backlash for Refusal to Shake Hands
Tennis star Elina Svitolina has sparked controversy after refusing to shake hands with Elina Avanesyan following their match at the Monterrey Open. The Ukrainian player’s decision has drawn criticism from fans and pundits alike, particularly given that Avanesyan is now representing Armenia.
Svitolina has maintained a stance of not shaking hands with Russian or Belarusian players since the outbreak of the Ukraine-Russia war. This decision has often led to heated debates and emotional responses. While her supporters applaud her patriotism, others argue that her actions are discriminatory and unfair to players who are not directly involved in the conflict.
Despite the backlash, Svitolina remains steadfast in her belief that her actions are a form of protest against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She has emphasized the importance of solidarity with her countrymen and women who are fighting on the front lines.
The issue of handshakes in sports has become a complex one, with players often caught in a dilemma between personal beliefs and the expectations of fans and officials. Svitolina’s refusal to shake hands with Avanesyan serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions and divisions in the world, and the challenges that athletes face in navigating these issues.