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 won the match with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 on the Kia Arena, but later spoke about the frosty interaction, attributing it to Kostyuk’s continued struggles against the backdrop of the invasion of the Ukraine by Russia.
A friendship turned icy
Badosa and Kostyuk were once close friends, providing each other with support through the ups and downs of the WTA Tour. However, their relationship deteriorated significantly, as evidenced by their post-match handshake. Although Badosa made an effort to look Kostyuk in the eyes, the Ukrainian avoided eye contact and quickly walked away.
In his post-match press conference, Badosa acknowledged the cold exchange, explaining:
“No, I mean, it’s just her.” I think she has her own concerns with Ukraine, the war, and all the things she’s been very vocal about… It was a little bit of that and maybe she lost a tough match. »
Underlying tensions
Although Badosa cited Kostyuk’s understandable stress over the war in Ukraine, there could be deeper reasons for this tension. Badosa is close friends with Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian world number one, whose home country has supported Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Kostyuk has been very clear about her position that Russian and Belarusian players should be banned from competing until the end of the war.
Kostyuk also made it clear that she will not shake hands with players from those nations and took a principled stance in solidarity with her country. Although not officially confirmed, Badosa’s association with Sabalenka likely contributed to the rift between the two players, who remained close until 2021, the year before the invasion began.
-Kostyuk’s unwavering stance
Kostyuk’s refusal to rebuild his friendship with Badosa reflects his broader principles in light of his country’s situation. Although his position may divide opinion, his commitment to supporting Ukraine’s cause remains intact.
What’s next for Badosa?
Badosa now turns her attention to a fourth-round clash against Olga Danilovic, who surprised Jessica Pegula in one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Danilovic’s powerful baseline game presents a tough test for Badosa, but the Spaniard will look to capitalize on her momentum as she targets the quarter-finals.
A breakup unlikely to heal
Given the geopolitical context and Kostyuk’s unyielding principles, it seems unlikely that Badosa and Kostyuk will repair their relationship. The tense dynamic between them serves as a stark reminder of how world events can profoundly affect personal relationships in the world of sports.
