Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk has criticised Russian tennis players for remaining silent about the war in Ukraine, saying they know 'what's going on' but choose not to speak out. The newly-crowned French Open semi-finalist made the remarks after defeating compatriot Elina Svitolina, following a night of drone and missile attacks that killed at least 23 people in Ukraine.
Kostyuk dedicated her victory to the Ukrainian people, saying: 'We had a very difficult night again in Ukraine, especially Kyiv. So many people dead. I want to give this match to Ukrainian people and to their resilience.' She added that representing Ukraine had become more important than winning.
When asked about Russian rivals including her upcoming opponent Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider, who have avoided political discussion, Kostyuk said: 'They are all grownups. They know what they're talking about. They know what's going on. They have phones. They have Instagram. They have news. I wish there was some more clear stance on what's going on, especially when your country is killing other people.'
Kostyuk praised Daria Kasatkina, who switched allegiance from Russia to Australia, for speaking out despite pressure on her family. She noted that most Russian players do not live in Russia and have no excuse for staying silent. 'There is nothing that's stopping you if this is something you don't believe in,' she said.
The attacks on Ukraine highlight a global shortage of air defence interceptor missiles, which Russia is exploiting, according to analysts. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pleaded for more supplies, warning that another large-scale attack may be imminent. Meanwhile, Ukraine's foreign minister Andrii Sybiha urged tougher sanctions on Moscow and more military support.
