“Martha posted a statement on her Instagram before the matches with Darya in Rome”, – WRITE: Sport.ua
“There are times when silence means to pretend that nothing is happening. The war against Ukraine is not just ongoing – it is painful, unfair and deeply real. It shapes life, future and everyday choice in a way that many will not even have to imagine.
Some say sports should remain out of politics. But this is not a politics – it’s about humanity. And when the aggressor is attacked on your country, silence looks like complicity.
As an athlete, I believe in honest game and respect, but these principles mean little if they do not go beyond the court.
Since the beginning of the war, I decided not to press his hand with Russian or Belarusian tennis players – as a personal position against Russia’s aggression.
But when someone not only tells the truth, calling Russia an aggressor, but also takes measures about it, it deserves respect.
Darya Kasatkin clearly opposed the war and made the decision to abandon Russian sports citizenship. This requires courage, and I recognize it. I hope this is not the last step, but part of a deeper obligation.
I am for Ukraine. I stand for the truth, for dignity and for those who decide to speak and act when it is easier to remain silent. ”
At the end of March, Kasatkin, who made a caing out, changed sports citizenship and now plays Australia. Kostyuk – Kasatkin’s match will be held in the second round of the prestigious WTA 1000 in Rome and will begin approximately at 16:30 in Kiev.
Martha Kostyuk’s statement on Instagram in English
