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Daria Kasatkina found herself in a moment of uncertainty at the net following her 6-4, 6-2 second-round defeat to Marta Kostyuk at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. The match marked more than just a routine tennis encounter—it was also the first time that Kasatkina, who had recently switched her nationality from Russian to Australian, faced Kostyuk on court.
For the past three years, Kostyuk, representing Ukraine, has refused to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players due to the ongoing invasion of her country by Russia and Belarus. This stance was shared by many of her fellow Ukrainian players. However, Kasatkina’s recent decision to change nationalities and represent Australia was a major turning point. With this in mind, Kostyuk and Kasatkina shared a handshake following their match, signaling a shift in Kostyuk’s position.
"I think if someone not just speaks the truth but also acts on it, I feel like that deserves respect," said Kostyuk. "I think it’s important to acknowledge that so other people kind of lead and have someone to look up to in these things." Kostyuk was not surprised by Kasatkina’s decision to no longer represent Russia, acknowledging the significance of the move.
Marta Kostyuk Reflects on Kasatkina’s Decision
Earlier in the day, Kostyuk had posted a statement on social media hinting that she would shake Kasatkina’s hand, but clarified that the two hadn’t communicated directly about the nationality change.
"I was very happy for her, and for her decision, but I can’t necessarily call us friends," Kostyuk shared after the match. "I think we’re colleagues like I am with all the players on tour. It was nothing official. Not much changed, just now she represents Australia and I shake her hand and I’m very happy for her."
Kasatkina, once a prominent Russian tennis player, is among the few athletes who have switched nationalities since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war. Her openly anti-war stance and her vocal criticisms have made her a symbol of defiance, which is part of the reason Kostyuk expressed respect for her.
"I don’t necessarily recall [others] speaking out against the war," Kostyuk remarked. "I don’t know what kind of motives they had to change the passport. Maybe they didn’t have access to visas or it’s just nicer to represent a country that actually has a flag next to your name."
She continued, "I don’t know what their intentions were and they haven’t spoken about it. It’s just a flag next to your name, but I don’t see it as a complete picture."
A Historic Moment in Tennis
The handshake between Kostyuk and Kasatkina marked a historic moment not only for the two players but also for the sport of tennis. Kostyuk’s decision to acknowledge Kasatkina’s nationality change stands as a significant gesture of respect and understanding in the context of a deeply political and divisive time. For Kostyuk, it is a reminder that actions and words must align, especially when standing firm in one’s beliefs.
Kasatkina’s Journey and the Future of Tennis Nationality Changes
Kasatkina’s decision to represent Australia comes after a series of major shifts in the global sports landscape, particularly in tennis, as athletes navigate the complex terrain of national identity amid the war. While Kasatkina’s stance on anti-war issues continues to resonate with many, her switch to representing Australia opens a new chapter in her career, one that will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans and players alike.
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