Elina Svitolina’s Stand Against Russian and Belarusian Players Sparks Debate
Monterrey, Mexico – Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has once again ignited controversy after refusing to shake hands with Elina Avanesyan following her victory in the fourth round of the Monterrey Open. Svitolina’s decision, rooted in her country’s ongoing conflict with Russia, has divided opinions among fans and players alike.
Avanesyan, born in Russia but now an Armenian citizen, has been a target of Svitolina’s no-handshake policy. Despite Avanesyan’s efforts to distance herself from her place of birth, Svitolina has maintained a steadfast stance against shaking hands with Russian and Belarusian players.
The incident sparked a flurry of online discussions, with some fans criticizing Svitolina for her actions. They argued that Avanesyan, as an Armenian citizen, should not be held accountable for Russia’s aggression. Others defended Svitolina, citing her country’s traumatic experiences and the need to stand in solidarity with Ukrainian victims.
Svitolina explained her decision in an interview, stating that the no-handshake policy was initiated after a meeting between Ukrainian and Russian officials. During the meeting, the Ukrainian government expressed its opposition to handshakes due to the two countries’ differing values.
This is not the first time Svitolina has made headlines for her political stance. Earlier this year, she broke down in tears during a press conference at Wimbledon after a Russian missile attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv. Her emotional response underscored the deep impact of the war on her and her fellow Ukrainians.
As Svitolina continues her journey through the Monterrey Open, the controversy surrounding her refusal to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players is likely to persist. Her actions serve as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between sports and politics, and the emotional toll that conflict can have on athletes and their communities.