Paula Badosa’s three-set victory over Marta Kostyuk in the third round of the Australian Open was overshadowed by a cold handshake at the net, highlighting the strained relationship between the two former friends. Badosa emerged victorious with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win on Kia Arena but later addressed the frosty interaction, attributing it to Kostyuk’s ongoing struggles amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
A friendship turned frosty
Badosa and Kostyuk were once close friends, offering each other support through the highs and lows of the WTA Tour. However, their relationship has soured significantly, as evidenced by their post-match handshake. While Badosa made an effort to look Kostyuk in the eye, the Ukrainian avoided eye contact and quickly walked away.
In her post-match press conference, Badosa acknowledged the cold exchange, explaining:
“No, I mean, it’s just her. I think she has her own things going on with Ukraine, the war, and all the things she’s been very vocal about… It was a bit that and maybe that she lost a tough match.”
Underlying tensions
While Badosa cited Kostyuk’s understandable stress over the war in Ukraine, there may be deeper reasons for the tension. Badosa is a close friend of Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian world No. 1, whose home country has supported Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Kostyuk has been vocal about her stance that Russian and Belarusian players should be banned from competing until the war ends.
Kostyuk has also made it clear she will not shake hands with players from those nations and has taken a principled stand in solidarity with her country. Though not officially confirmed, Badosa’s association with Sabalenka likely contributed to the fallout between the two players, who remained close until 2021, the year before the invasion began.
Kostyuk’s unwavering stance
Kostyuk’s refusal to rebuild her friendship with Badosa reflects her broader principles in light of her nation’s plight. While her stance may divide opinion, her commitment to supporting Ukraine’s cause is unshaken.
What’s next for Badosa?
Badosa now turns her attention to a fourth-round clash with Olga Danilovic, who stunned Jessica Pegula in one of the tournament’s biggest upsets. Danilovic’s powerful baseline game presents a tough test for Badosa, but the Spaniard will look to capitalize on her momentum as she aims for the quarterfinals.
A rift unlikely to heal
Given the geopolitical backdrop and Kostyuk’s steadfast principles, it seems improbable that Badosa and Kostyuk will mend their relationship. The strained dynamic between them serves as a stark reminder of how global events can deeply impact personal relationships within the world of sports.
