Aryna Sabalenka has ignited a fresh controversy in women's tennis with a pointed gesture following her victory over Marta Kostyuk in the Brisbane International final. The world number one appeared to mock her opponent's previous claims about a 'biological advantage' by kissing her biceps after a straight-sets win.
A Frosty Final and a Telling Gesture
Sabalenka secured her third Brisbane International title with a commanding 6-4, 6-3 victory, completing a flawless week without dropping a single set. The match was overshadowed by pre-existing tensions, stemming from comments Kostyuk made in October. The Ukrainian player had suggested that opponents like Sabalenka possess a 'higher level of testosterone', granting them a natural physical advantage in strength and power.
Immediately after match point, Sabalenka turned to her player's box and kissed her biceps—a gesture widely interpreted as a direct response to Kostyuk's remarks. The animosity was palpable during the trophy presentation, where Kostyuk refused to shake Sabalenka's hand and pointedly omitted the champion's name from her runner-up speech.
History of Tension and Denials
Sabalenka later denied the gesture was aimed at Kostyuk, stating she was 'just making fun with my team'. However, it is an uncommon celebration for the Belarusian star, adding fuel to the speculation. This incident is the latest in an ongoing feud between the two players, which began at the 2023 French Open when Kostyuk refused a handshake in protest of Belarus's role in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Kostyuk has since claimed her testosterone comments were 'taken out of context'. In her original interview with Tennis 365, she framed the biological differences as a natural challenge, saying, 'I cannot make myself 10kgs bigger or five centimetres taller... they have an advantage on me.' She insisted she never intended to cause offence and would have apologised if she had.
Road to the Australian Open
The rivalry adds a compelling subplot as the tennis world shifts focus to Melbourne. Sabalenka is now set to defend her Australian Open title, with the first major of the year commencing on Sunday, January 18. She will be aiming for a third consecutive triumph at the tournament.
This episode highlights the intense psychological and physical battles at the pinnacle of women's tennis, where gamesmanship and mind games often extend far beyond the baseline. All eyes will be on whether this frosty relationship thaws or deepens as the Grand Slam unfolds.
