Days after the Hand-Shake Controversy, 28-Year-Old Elina Svitolina Issues Issues Solid Statement as WTA Cleared the Air with a New Rule

The Ukrainian tennis player, Elina Svitolina has made her comeback with a jaw-dropping performance this year. Her astounding run at Wimbledon spoke words about her resilience. Once again, we have seen her maintaining her form for the US Open after she took down Victoria Azarenka in the first round of the Citi Open. However, she has maintained her political stance firmly.

The Ukrainian tennis player has previously refused to shake hands with the Russian and Belarusian opponents. This is something she continues to practice and this time she got WTA to side with her.

WTA respects the choice of Elina Svitolina after she did not shake hands with Victoria Azarenka 

The Ukrainian player went through some major life changes last year. Both good and bad. Good, she got pregnant and gave birth to her adorable daughter Skai. Bad, she found her country embroiled in a conflict with Russia.

Hence, this year since her comeback, she has abstained from shaking hands with Belarusian and Russian tennis players. Even though they are competing under neutral flags, it is not acceptable to the Ukrainian tennis star. After defeating Victoria Azarenka in the first-round match of the Citi Open, Svitolina again did not shake her opponent’s hand. Svitolina said it was the “right thing” to do, as reported by Eurosport.

Previously, it was solely her decision. However, now she has taken the permission of WTA too. She stated, “I asked for the WTA to respect the decision of Ukrainians and they did.” 

Just before the match, a message appeared on the screen as it advised the spectators to respect the decision of the players on the court.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has deeply affected the sports realm as well. Last year Wimbledon banned Russian and Belarusian players from participating.

READ MORE: Moments After Commanding Win Over Victoria Azarenka, Elina Svitolina Credits Daughter for Her Rapid Change of Fortunes

Svitolina in congruence has maintained her stance even after facing a condemning crowd at Wimbledon.

Svitolina affirms her stance after Wimbledon “hand-shake” controversy

The Ukrainian tennis player has made it clear on multiple occasions that she is taking a stand for her country. After her unbelievable Wimbledon swing, Svitolina once again asserted her stand.

She stated that people need to understand that her friends are on the front lines. She also added as other people are representing their counties, she is doing the same. Hence, it is crucial to make her stand clear as sometimes politics can not be separated from the sport. 

Do you agree with her stand? Let us know in your comments below.

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