Ukrainian tennis star Marta Kostyuk has strongly criticised Russian players for their silence regarding the war in Ukraine, stating their inaction over four years reveals 'whose side they are on'. Her comments followed her advancement to her first Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open, achieved by defeating fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina in an emotionally charged quarter-final, played hours after Russian strikes on Kyiv.
Kostyuk Dismisses Safety Concerns
Kostyuk dismissed the argument that Russian athletes must remain silent due to potential repercussions at home, citing examples like Daria Kasatkina who publicly spoke out and switched allegiance. She highlighted that many Russian players do not live in Russia, suggesting there is 'nothing that’s stopping you if this is something you don’t believe in' if they disagree with their country's actions.
Dedication to Ukraine
Kostyuk dedicated her victory to 'the Ukrainian people', emphasising that representing Ukraine has become more significant than individual results, especially given the ongoing conflict. She is set to face Mirra Andreeva in the semi-finals.
